Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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333. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Dáil topical issue debates submitted to his Department following selection by the Ceann Comhairle since March 2011; the number of topical issues taken directly by him; the number of topical issues taken by a Junior Minister in his Department; the number of issues taken by a Minister not from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30344/13]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Since March 2011, 50 Topical Issue and Dáil Adjournment Debates have been submitted to my Department following selection by the Ceann Comhairle.

90%, i.e. 45 of the 50 Topical Issue and Dáil Adjournment Debates submitted to my Department following selection by the Ceann Comhairle were taken by my Ministers of State and me.

In total, I have participated in 19 debates and the Ministers of State of my Department, John Perry TD and Sean Sherlock TD each participated in 13 debates. 5 debates were taken by a Minister outside of my Department.

I endeavour to participate in all debates where policy matters under my remit are selected for debate. Where this is not possible, I request that a Minister of State from my Department participates in the debate on my behalf. On 16 occasions my participation in a Dáil debate was not possible due to overseas travel commitments such as Trade Missions, EU Presidency business and Government meetings.