Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Day after sitting day, week after sitting week, Deputy after Deputy raises issues of concern under Standing Order 31. I cannot recall when you, a Cheann Comhairle, in your wisdom allowed one of these previously, although a few were allowed during the past 30 years. When will Deputies of all parties and none have a facility to raise matters of concern that can be dealt with adequately by Government? I realise it is part of the proposals by the Whip. When will something be done about this farcical situation where week after week a list of issues is read out which you, in your wisdom, consider are not appropriate to raise in the House even though they may be of great concern locally, regionally or nationally?

In respect of the legislation governing the Health Service Executive, when are we likely to have a chief executive? There are reports that the person who was offered the job and refused it may be reconsidering it.

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