The removal of Mr Charles Haughey from the Council of State was demanded by Mr Alan Shatter (FG, Dublin South). He asked if the Taoiseach had considered writing to Mr Haughey and suggesting that he should resign to avoid causing the incoming President any embarrassment.

When the Ceann Comhairle, Mr Seamus Pattison, ruled the matter out of order, Mr Shatter said: "I think in the light of the McCracken report it is particularly inappropriate that Mr Haughey continue to be a member of the Council of State and exercise constitutional functions in advising the President."

Mr Shatter raised the matter again later, asking if the Taoiseach and Tanaiste thought it appropriate that Mr Haughey remain on the Council of State. Mr Pattison again ruled him out of order.

Mr Ahern said the matter referred to by Mr Shatter related to the office of the President and under standing orders the Presidency could not be raised in the House.

Mr Brian Hayes (FG, Dublin South West) asked: "Is the Government considering a referendum on the Council of State so that certain people can be kicked off it?"

Asked by the Labour spokesman on the environment, Mr Brendan Howlin, if the polling day for the presidential election would be moved to a Friday to facilitate young people, the Taoiseach said the date had been fixed.