Marie Louise O'Donnell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I accept that ICOS is represented on the task force charged with cleaning up this mess. In his initial contribution, Mr. Moore stated, "The key question for ICOS at this time is not what led to the closures but how many more will follow". I beg to differ. The key question relates to what led to the closures, what were the reasons involved and why was action not taken either last year, the year before or five years ago in order to prevent the closures. It is only now, with 2,000 students out on the street, that action is being taken.

Loose regulation, improper accreditation and the other elements that constituted the perfect storm did not just come into being last week or the week before. The key question is what led to the closures. That is what I want to discover. If I cannot obtain the relevant information here, I will obtain it through the press. What actually happened that allowed 2,000 students to be left out on the streets? The idea that students who have nowhere to go will be looked upon benevolently is ridiculous. They must all be offered places on alternative courses of some sort. I am on ICOS's side. I am merely trying to discover what led to the closures. When did ICOS first become involved with this matter? For how long, in what way and to whom has it being flagging the problems that exist in the five years since Mr. Moore became head of the organisation? My questions are designed to show that I am on Mr. Moore's team. I am not questioning his authenticity.