P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

On the same matter, I want direction from the Taoiseach. Will he take responsibility for this serious situation arising for democratically elected public representatives of this House who cannot obtain answers to questions? Three weeks ago, I tabled three parliamentary questions to the Minister for Social and Family Affairs on behalf of three constituents, one regarding an application for jobseeker's allowance, one on behalf of a person seeking carer's allowance and the other on behalf of a person seeking the State pension. I received the same reply from the Minister to all three, namely, "Due to staff action currently being taken, I regret that I am unable to provide the information sought by the Deputy". It is the prerogative of the Taoiseach to step in and to introduce legislation to this House immediately so that this conduct will cease and the Members of this House who are democratically elected are allowed to raise matters concerning their constituents and obtain answers thereby. I want immediate action.

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