Dáil debates

Wednesday, 27 October 2010

10:30 am

Photo of John CurranJohn Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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I move:

That, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, the Order of Business be taken immediately after Leaders' Questions today.

Photo of Séamus KirkSéamus Kirk (Louth, Ceann Comhairle)
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Is that agreed?

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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It is not agreed. Why are Independents being excluded once again from the debate on the economy? This is a simple question for the Government and Opposition parties. They have been talking about Dáil reform in the House for the past 20 years, yet democratically elected Independent Members are not allowed to speak on a major financial crisis in this State. It is appalling, disgraceful and unacceptable.

Photo of Séamus KirkSéamus Kirk (Louth, Ceann Comhairle)
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After Leaders' Questions, I will proceed to the Order of Business, which may be more appropriate for considering the matter raised by the Deputy.

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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It is very important that people wake up, smell the coffee and recognise the reality that democratically elected Members are not allowed to contribute. In recent opinion polls, Independents comprise the fourth highest grouping. This is very important. If one is a democrat, one listens to the voices of all the people.

Photo of Séamus KirkSéamus Kirk (Louth, Ceann Comhairle)
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We hear the sentiments.

Question put and agreed to.