Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator can contradict whatever she likes. Whatever she thinks is fine. I am telling her what was in the e-mail I received yesterday. She can contradict what she likes, but she cannot contradict the fact that this is what happened. Deputies Cowen and Kevin Humphreys were telephoned to explain that this should not have happened. The question of how parliamentary questions are answered is a separate issue. I might point to what the answer says will happen but that does not necessarily mean it will happen. That issue has to be addressed. Ultimately, I just want people to be happy that there is transparency and accountability regarding the charges and that they are seen to be fair. I assure the House that there will be a free allowance and that all the other issues - medical issues have been brought to my attention by many people - will be dealt with. At every stage of this process, everybody here will have an opportunity to talk about it and ask questions. I am happy to do my job, which is to be accountable. I am hiding from nothing because I have nothing to hide. I am happy that this debate has been important. I thank the House for providing extra time because it was important.