Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

In terms of consultation, Deputy Howlin represents the Labour Party on the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission. Fine Gael and all parties in both Houses are also represented. This was brought to their notice and the Minister for Finance's representative, the Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Brian Lenihan, asked people to come forward if they had any difficulties. One Deputy raised an issue — I understand it was Deputy Howlin — but he did not have a problem thereafter. Hence, the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission, which is responsible for this matter, is happy to have the Taoiseach in this role.

It would be a grave crisis if such a situation arose and it is unlikely that the Taoiseach would act in a manner that was inconsistent with the views of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission or of the Ceann Comhairle. As Members are aware, any dismissal would leave the Taoiseach open to challenge, given all the judicial reviews and safeguards in place. Hence, such an action would involve sensitive consultation. Generally, in the history of the Dáil, the Taoiseach has represented the largest party in the House — although a certain party previously put forward suggestions regarding the possibility of having a minority party appoint a Taoiseach. A Taoiseach will not expose himself or herself to challenge. Sensitive consultations and recommendations from the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission would be involved in such a sensitive decision as the dismissal of the Clerk of the Dáil or the Seanad.

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