David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The problem with that is - I am not saying that I in any way disbelieve the former Minister, that is not the point - as Mr. Griffin very well knows, that when one puts oneself in a position where one has several engagements, several dinners and meetings with a bidder, when there is a live process under way, it is the perception that is the problem. We will never know what was or was not discussed. What we do know is that the perception is not good and not having officials present that can verify what was raised or not is the problem. We have had this before in other areas. Lessons should be learned, that is for sure. I am not in any way calling into question the character of the former Minister. I share Mr. Griffin's overall view of the former Minister; I have no problem with that whatsoever. I am thankful for Mr. Griffin's response and for his clarifying that point. I agree with his perception.