Alex White (Labour)

On a point of order, I ask the Cathaoirleach to reconsider his ruling or if he is not prepared to do so - in which case I will respect his ruling - to indicate the basis for it. I note that two Committee Stage recommendations were drafted in precisely the same terms, that the Minister should within a particular period from the passing of the Bill "prepare and lay before Dáil Éireann a report...". Committee Stage recommendation No. 29 read: "The Minister shall within one month from the passing of this Act prepare and lay before Dáil Éireann a report on the estimate of the VAT likely to be charged by local and public authorities...". Committee Stage recommendation No. 34 referred to uncommenced finance legislation. The recommendations were drafted in precisely the same terms in calling for the preparation of a report and the laying of that report before Dáil Éireann. While I respect the ruling of the Cathaoirleach, as Members, we are entitled to an explanation as to the basis for his ruling, rather than simply being told the matter has been decided.