Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

On a point of order, I accept the Cathaoirleach's ruling. I respect this House and I accept that the Acting Chair may not have noticed the two colleagues who indicated. However, I want to put it on the record of the House that they were here, they did indicate, which is my clear understanding, and they were listed to speak. In good faith, having been in the Chair myself on many occasions when quorums were called, I always allowed sufficient time for people to get back into the House.

Members are criticising our colleague for calling a quorum. He is quite entitled to call a quorum under the Standing Orders of this House and it is a long-standing precedent that time would be given to colleagues to re-enter the Chamber. I want to put it on the record of the House that it is my clear understanding - I believe my colleagues - that they were here and had indicated, as well as having been mentioned on a list that is in front of the Cathaoirleach. None the less, I accept the Cathaoirleach's ruling.