The Dáil's Ceann Comhairle says he accepts that opposition TDs ARE allowed to question his decisions.

But he's defended his decision to cancel a debate last week was in the best interests of the taxpayer and the Oireachtas.

In a statement this afternoon Sean Barrett says in "the heat of the moment" he might have given the wrong impression - and he accepts that opposition TDs ARE entitled to question his decisions as Chairman of the Dáil.

However he's defended his decision to block a debate on alleged Garda malpractice - saying it was in "the best interest of the Oireachtas and the taxpayer" that the debate be called off.

Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett has issued this statement: pic.twitter.com/DPmBmy5C4a

— Today FM News (@TodayFMNews) February 2, 2015

But the statement may only serve to inflame the situation further - because the Ceann Comhairle has NOT withdrawn his claim that opposition parties are out 'to get him'.

Both Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil had called on him to withdraw the remarks - and Fianna Fáil has said it will no longer have confidence in the Dún Laoghaire TD if the comments are not withdrawn.

It says it cannot expect fair treatment from Barrett if he believes there is an ulterior motive for its actions - or if the party is being accused of directly trying to undermine him.

A motion of no confidence against a Ceann Comhairle is unprecedented - and the only time a previous Ceann Comhairle has resigned, it was because such a motion was merely threatened against him.

Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly filed this report for Today FM's National Lunchtime News: