Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Ceann Comhairle)

If the Deputy had taken the trouble to telephone me instead of raising it on the floor of the House, I would have explained exactly what I was requested to do. I have already dealt with this matter. I received a request that a personal statement be made. Under Standing Order 44, a personal statement relates to matters that were raised where clarification is needed and where no debate takes place after the statement. Therefore, the matter is not in accordance with Standing Order 44.

I did what I did in the interest of the Members of this House and in accordance with Standing Orders and I make no apologies for adhering to Standing Orders. I suggest the Deputy should get his Whip to come to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges on the next occasion and suggest an amendment to Standing Orders. I would be pleased if the committee discussed it, and if the Dáil so decides, we will change the Standing Orders. There is no point in coming in here and making it look as if I am being questioned as to why I was the bad boy and did not allow a statement. Therefore, we are not having a debate. The decision was taken-----

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