Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

Last week I raised the question of No. 23 on the Order Paper, the motion in the Leader's name, but effectively in all our names, on the issue of Mr. Brian Curtin. I do not understand why the motion remains on the Order Paper. If the Government can tell the House that this is because it has not yet concluded its dealings with the former judge in terms of accepting medical evidence he has given, that is fine. However we need to resolve this issue before the close of session on Friday. It would be wrong if this matter remained on the Order Paper in perpetuity when the committee has done its work and the matter is resolved. If it is a matter of negotiation between the Government and the former judge we should be informed of it. The motion in the Leader's name is in all our names because we agreed unanimously to establish this. I would appreciate some clarity on this by Friday.

Yesterday the Government decided to appoint Deputy Haughey Minister of State at the Department of Education and Children. I congratulate Deputy Haughey on his elevation. He is a decent person and is respected on all sides of the House.