Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Failure to respond to parliamentary questions presented for written answer by Dáil Deputies is a serious matter. I add the Sinn Féin voice to the call made by Deputy Gilmore for an alternative facilitation of Members' inquiries and questions which are, in the main, relevant and important to the circumstances of individual citizens or groups of citizens.

A protest is under way with Government and it is a matter the Government will have to address. I urge it to do so. In the interim period, while the current position is maintained, there is a responsibility on Ministers to provide Deputies with replies to the critical questions we have been requested to ask on behalf of people who are, in the main, in difficulties. What is the Taoiseach prepared to do about this unacceptable situation?

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