Green TD ejected from Dáil
Green Party TD Paul Gogarty was ejected from the Dáil tonight for attempting to raise an issue about the risk to households from sub-standard gas pipes which could leak or explode.
Mr Gogarty had sought the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to debate the issue, but was ruled out of order by Ceann Comhairle Rory O’Hanlon.
He claimed that there was a risk to tens of thousands of households throughout the country from gas pipes that have not been installed to the IS813 2002 Irish quality standard and are thus liable to corrosion.
“This has created a risk whereby the pipe will eventually corrode, leading to gas leaks and, in some cases, potentially fatal explosions,” he added.
The Dublin Mid-West TD claimed he had tried to raise the issue on several occasions.
But Mr O’Hanlon said a debate could not be facilitated and invited Mr Gogarty to discuss it in his office.
Mr Gogarty persisted: “Thousands of gas leaks over the years may lead to a situation where they will cause an explosion.”
The Ceann Comhairle asked the TD to resume his seat on three occasions but he refused and was then asked to leave the chamber for being disorderly.
Mr Gogarty said: “It is not an issue of order; it is one of public safety.”
