Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I have a supplementary question based on the original reply. In his reply relating to the Friday sittings, the Chief Whip has indicated there is ongoing review and that the situation is being monitored. Will he agree that the quorum for a Friday sitting should be made up from both the Government and Opposition sides?

On Taoiseach's questions and the Order of Business, the reform that was introduced removed the Taoiseach's obligation to answer Taoiseach's questions on a Wednesday. Prior to this, in the previous Dáil, the Taoiseach would always answer questions on issues relating to his Department on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. However, that provision has been deftly slipped out, with the result that the Taoiseach only has to come in once a week. Will the Whip agree to reconsider that and to reinstate Taoiseach's questions on a Wednesday in order to ensure better accountability?

Time limits have been set on the Order of Business. These limits mean, although Members did not expect this, that when a vote takes place, it can summarily eliminate the Order of Business on that day, the Wednesday or Thursday. These changes were not intended initially in the reform and it would be correct if reforms in this regard could take place immediately. Will the Chief Whip comment on this?

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