In 2016, when the Taoiseach was in opposition, he said:

...political parties should not think Parliament is their possession and that they can control anything that happens. To date, we have had such an experience, where Deputies have been removed from committees because they voted against the Government's line.

Why has he now done a 360° turn in trying to remove Deputy Danny Healy-Rae from the agriculture committee at 3 p.m. because he voted against the Government? This decision has to be reversed and we need a debate on the issue.

A Cheann Comhairle, under-----

I call on the Chief Whip to respond. I am sorry but Deputy Healy-Rae is not entitled to speak.

Under Standing Order 35(3)-----

Justice for the Kilgarvan one.

Under Standing Order 35(3), I believe I am entitled to say a few words.

No, Standing Order 35(3) allows Members to move amendments to the Order of Business. Does the Deputy have an amendment?

I have.

I ask the Deputy to state his amendment.

My amendment is that I be allowed stay on the committee on agriculture. My understanding is that I was appointed as an Independent member rather than a Government or Fianna Fáil member.

That is fine. I call on the Chief Whip to respond.

Just so that all Deputies are aware, I will clarify that they do not need to be a member of a committee to attend meetings. I note the comments made and the requests for statements. These will be considered at the meeting of the Business Committee on Thursday, as normal. The Order of Business stands.

Is the Order of Business agreed?

Not agreed.

Justice for Danny.