Eamonn Coghlan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I must comment on Senator O'Brien's calling for an amendment to the Order of Business. I understand his political motives. He just wants to keep this issue going. He said it is as valid today as it was on Tuesday when he asked for the Attorney General to come into the House to be questioned. It is just another example of the Senator stirring the pot. I remind him where and how long ago the seeds of this issue were planted. I remind him that this is a corporate governance issue which has affected our corporate community, charitable negations, sporting organisations and, now, the Garda Síochána. This Government is dealing with the issue. There is commentary from many quarters. Bringing the Attorney General in here would be just a political game. This Government will not take its eye off the ball but will keep its eye on the economy, jobs and reform, and that is what this issue is all about.

With regard to the theatrics of Senator Marc MacSharry, the last thing the Minister, Deputy Leo Varadkar, wants to do is close rural railway lines. This is another example of reform and it is about asking semi-State companies to perform with a business perspective. I know it is a political ploy because the Senator referred to 23 May when the local and European elections will take place. That is why he wants to stir it. I commend what Fine Gael is doing in reforming this great country of ours.