Mr. Tony O'Brien:

Of the €422,000 in grants paid from the levy fund account to trade unions from 2002 to 2010, approximately €68,000 was paid to SIPTU nationally and to some of its branches. That figure is from the Comptroller and Auditor General's report. Since I heard those remarks about spin and leaks I have spoken to the officials with responsibility for HSE communications and, as the committee has heard from Dr. Smith, from those who had the detailed knowledge of the internal audit report. They have assured me that no leaks emanated from the HSE. My central point was that it is a very serious allegation to make and if the person who made it has any evidence to support that, I would like to see it and I will be prepared to take action on it if it exists.