Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

While I do not wish to comment on a particular case, it is easy for public bodies to agree to pay people indefinitely because it is not their money they are spending. It has been suggested the taxpayer can meet the costs arising as long as the case runs. If this was a private company, a different approach would have been taken. I know that cases have to be dealt with, but no private company would agree to pay the wages of four people in two positions. No business could survive in that way, yet because the taxpayer is picking up the tab, this is being allowed to continue. There is no incentive on any side to bring the matter to a conclusion. That is my concern. It is the job of this committee to look after the taxpayers' interests. I see no incentive on any side to resolve the matter. It could continue indefinitely and the taxpayer will be expected to foot the bill.