David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

There is a problem with the perception of either conflicts of interest or that we have a process now that people feel is a bit of a mess. We have a single bidder for whatever reason. We have already talked through that and ended up in that situation. A former Minister had several engagements and meetings with somebody closely associated with this single bidder that was left in the race. Notwithstanding whatever independent report gives its analysis, it is not just a perception here. It would have been preferable if the meetings not taken place. They did take place. It is reasonable for us to ask Mr. Griffin questions, which he has answered. It is reasonable even to go a step further and ask how he can say that the process has not been contaminated if we have had a large number of meetings - meeting after meeting without officials present, which Mr. Griffin says is not appropriate - between the former Minister, who ultimately would make the decision here, and somebody associated with the only bid. How can he say that the process was not in any way contaminated? How can we be assured that this is a genuine reflection on his part?