Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I thank the Taoiseach for his reply. I seek clarification. If I have missed out on a change of Cabinet committee title then it is my failure. I was genuinely of the view that heretofore we had been referring to the Cabinet committee on social inclusion and drugs. At what point was this changed? Are the issues regarding drugs being addressed in a different and newly designated committee? At the outset of a new Dáil term, let us say, there could be a reshuffle of the portfolios under different Ministers, which happens from time to time. Has there been a shuffle of responsibility by Cabinet committee and is that what this reflects? Could the Taoiseach shed some light on the matter?

Regarding the absence of any public profile, I appreciate that the Cabinet meets as frequently as required and certainly once a week. However, we have no notion of the function, remit or activity of Cabinet committees. While the Ceann Comhairle correctly cautioned me earlier on the confidentiality aspect, would the Taoiseach share his view of this matter? Surely it would be beneficial to an appreciation of the work that has been undertaken by all involved for us to have a sense of the issues being addressed, if not the detail, which were taking up the Taoiseach's time.

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