The leader of Sinn Féin Gerry Adams says he will make a Dáil speech explaining what he knows about the murder of Portlaoise Prison chief, Brian Stack.

Mr Stack was shot by the IRA in 1983 and died 18 months later.

Deputy Adams was today challenged to make a statement, after claims he had helped the family of Brian Stack make contact with an IRA official who oversaw an internal investigation.

But Mr Adams has been told he should apply directly to the Ceann Comhairle for speaking time to make his statement.

Responding to questions from the Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, Enda Kenny earlier urged Deputy Adams to make a full statement.

"I think Deputy Gerry Adams knows more about this than certainly I do," Mr Kenny said.

"And while this investigation is going on into a murder, perhaps Deputy Adams might - in the privilege of this House - make a statement and clear it up for everybody".