Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

To respond finally, when I said "the committee", I meant myself as Chairman on behalf of the committee. I clarify that it was never my intention that the other members had to vet individuals. As Chairman, however, I have often told Accounting Officers not to answer a particular question. I have said it before and may have to say it again. I made that decision on the day based on what I felt were very strong suggestions of criminal activity. As Chairman, I am not happy to chair any meeting anywhere in the country, even in my constituency, if allegations are suggested and I do nothing about it. My job was to report it to An Garda Síochána which is what I did. There, the matter rests. If there is a follow up from any committee, I will welcome clarification.