Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Yesterday I raised in the House the issue of the necessity and the importance of having a debate in regard to the situation pertaining to Deputy Mick Wallace, and I understand Deputy Wallace himself wanted to avail of an opportunity to make a statement to the House. My understanding from the Whips' meetings was that the Government Whip indicated there were legal reasons that motions or a debate could not be proceeded with. I also understood that Standing Orders precluded any such statement by Deputy Wallace. However, it would seem to me, and I would appreciate some clarification of this, that Standing Order 57 specifically allows for a statement in regard to a matter of this kind, and also a debate.

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