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

I will deal with the last question first. Standing Order 26(1) is quite clear that when the House has been adjourned, as it was and is then recalled on foot of a summons of the Taoiseach , the only work that can be transacted is the work set out by the Taoiseach in the summons so that is why we are where we are.

I have absolutely no difficulty with the questions from Deputies Alan Kelly and Mac Lochlainn and others; they are absolutely legitimate and in order. Just for the sake of clarity, I arrived here to take health questions. It was indicated to me before I arrived that there might be a problem with the Minister for Health's availability. While we were waiting, I was approached by a very senior member of the team who had received a message from Government to the effect that there were - I am not sure what terminology we should use, whether it is self-isolation or whatever - problems with the availability of Ministers to transact business here. The advice that we were receiving from Government was that the House should adjourn and that it would be recalled in due course by the Taoiseach. Now that is quite simple and straightforward and the Taoiseach has now clarified the matter and recalled the House. I have no difficulty with how I acted. I do not think anybody else would have acted any differently. How we came to be asked to take that action at that particular time is another story but we need to get on with the business now. I hope my explanation is crystal clear to everyone. Is it?

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