Opposition demands for a special debate on the controversy surrounding the Taoiseach's loans and the "Manchester money" were ruled out of order.
Green Party leader Trevor Sargent led the demand for the Dáil to be suspended for a special debate on the issue or for it to sit later to discuss the matter, but Taoiseach Bertie Ahern rejected the calls.
"I have answered questions," he insisted.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny called for the House to sit 75 minutes late to "clarify the issue of the Manchester money, the definition of 'gift' in tax legislation and the conflict of interest consequent to several appointments made by the Taoiseach".
Labour leader Pat Rabbitte said "a brief period of questions and answers after the end of a round of statements would be appropriate".
Mr Sargent said the Green Party whip Dan Boyle had written to the Government chief whip, specifically asking for the House to sit late to discuss the matter. "The request was not to the liking of the Government chief whip. The House needs to make a decision."
Ceann Comhairle Dr Rory O'Hanlon asked Mr Ahern: "Does the Taoiseach wish to change the proposal regarding Private Members' Business?" Mr Ahern replied: "I am not changing it." The Government rejected the proposed debate by 72 to 64.
