Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Ceann Comhairle) | Oireachtas source

To be clear, the Minister in question, Deputy Barry Cowen, made a request to me in accordance with Standing Order 56, which relates to providing a personal explanation to the Dáil. I have acceded to the request and provided time for the Minister to do this later this evening. Standing Order 56 specifically precludes a debate or questions. This is not unprecedented and in the history of this Chamber there have been numerous statements made in this way. This method was chosen by the Minister, Deputy Cowen, and the request was acceded to by me. That is the end of that particular matter.

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