andMr. Cooney asked the Minister for Finance if it is proposed to introduce amending legislation involving the constitution and functions of An Comhairle Ealaíon; and, if so, the nature and extent of any changes embodied in such proposals.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - An Comhairle Ealaíon.
5.
As the Deputies are aware the intention to re-organise and expand the structure and functions of An Chomhairle Ealaíon has already been indicated on a number of occasions.
I have not yet had an opportunity to consider in detail this rather complex matter. I am not therefore able to say at this point what precisely the nature and extent of any changes will be.
May I ask why it is that the Minister for Finance is answering in respect of An Comhairle Ealaíon? I would not have thought that he would have much to do with them.
Of course I have; it is one of my functions.
This is a serious matter. I believe——
We cannot have a speech on the matter.
I would have thought——
That is not in the form of a question.
It is the Ceann Comhairle who is in charge here.
The acting Taoiseach should stay quiet.
Question No. 6.
I have not had any answer to my question.
The Deputy did not ask a question.
To put it in question form, why is the Minister for Finance answering this question?
I have already told the Deputy why but he must not have been listening. It is one of my functions as Minister for Finance.
I cannot accept that answer. I would have thought that it would have been the Minister for Education who would answer.
We cannot debate the matter.