Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Bradley for that contribution. He can, of course, respectfully suggest it, but the point I would make is that it is his legal opinion. He obviously is entitled to give it, but the committee has to make a decision that will go to the Dáil and the Oireachtas for implementation. I believe we have to be much more conscious of the fact that, as a result of a decision that is politically expedient or anything else, we cannot put this State's finances at risk of tens of millions of euro in fines based on what might be an opinion or a decision. As a committee, we have a very serious body of work to do. We take it very seriously and are working on it every single week. However, it is vitally important that the view of the Commission, which would be the initial instigator of a possible levy, be given significant weight. The other opinions, legal or otherwise, which we receive from those who attend the committee are important. Fundamentally, however, we must take on board in our recommendations both what we want to see politically and what are the implications and risks to our nation.