Updated 2.35pm

SINN FÉIN PRESIDENT Gerry Adams had an awkward moment in the Dáil today as he forgot Communications Minister Pat Rabbitte’s second name and had to be reminded by his deputy Mary Lou McDonald.

As he criticised the government’s Gateway scheme during Leaders’ Questions, Adams tried his best, saying “Pat, Pat…” before admitting defeat and asking McDonald: “What’s Pat’s name again?”

But Sinn Féin has contacted TheJournal.ie this afternoon to say that far from being forgetful, the Louth deputy intended his remark as a response to Enda Kenny saying earlier: “You’re the leader of your party…” to which Adams responded: “I know that, Taoiseach”.

“It was intended as a put-down,” a party spokesperson insisted.

It seems Adams fooled everyone as Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett thought it necessary to remind members of the long-established principle of referring to members of the Dáil as either, “Minister, Minister of State or Deputy”.

Barrett added cheekily: “We have ushers around the house. If you need to be reminded of a person’s name I am sure the ushers will help you.”

First published 1.02pm

Check out the awkward moment above

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