On a point of order, I am of the view that the personalised derogatory comments that the Tánaiste made about me earlier impugned my character, integrity and good name. I am seeking the protection of the Chair and for the Tánaiste to withdraw those comments.

The word "hypocrite" was used and the Deputy was named. I ask the Tánaiste to withdraw his comments.

I would be happy to withdraw them because I do not particularly want to have a row with the Deputy over this, but I would like to note two points. She did not answer my question-----

The Tánaiste is not entitled to that.

-----as to whether she applied a different standard to Sinn Féin.

That is a half-baked withdrawal.

Deputies, please.

I also feel that Deputy Shortall impugned my character. I would like to put that on the record.

Hear, hear.

Perhaps the Leas-Cheann Comhairle will rule on that, too. Second, I did note that, a little like the Leader of the Opposition, you challenge her and she threatens to sue you.

That is ridiculous.

That was very gracious.

Grace under pressure.

Could we do this without interruption? I really do not want to stand up.

Tánaiste, there is one issue here in relation to alleging or calling the Deputy a "hypocrite". I did not want to go into the salient rulings of the Chair, but I have them here. You are precluded from calling her that. I am simply asking you to withdraw it. The relevant ruling specifically is Salient Ruling No. 428. The word "hypocrite" amongst others is not acceptable. Will you withdraw that, please?

I will withdraw it and replace it with the term "double standards".

Simply, what I am asking the Tánaiste to do is to withdraw the word "hypocrite".

He has done it twice now.

With respect, I have done it twice. "Purveyor of double standards".