Joe O'Toole (Independent)

It occurs regularly and there is nothing new about it. However, in our history, economic or otherwise, there has never been such uncertainty and instability as there is now. The idea of Ministers leaving the Cabinet a couple of weeks before a general election and being replaced by others who will hardly find their way into their new jobs before an election is not just incredulous, it creates further instability. The Taoiseach should note that the Cabinet members concerned are not running for re-election and tell them that they should continue in office and do what they were appointed to do until the election is called. That is what would normally occur and this situation is no different. It makes a mockery of what we intend to do. That a Minister would expect someone else at this late stage in the life of the Government to take over a Department and deliver in the next six weeks is not acceptable. It creates instability and causes further bemusement, adding to the cynical view of politics. The Taoiseach should be asked to reconsider. There is nothing wrong with members not seeking re-election, but the Cabinet and Government systems should not suffer such a body blow.