Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will answer that question. Of course, I want to be in a position so that, if taxpayers’ money has been used in a way to underpin a payment that has been made, that money is returned to the State. As I said, however, in my view, that can only be done legally in a prospective manner.

What I find extraordinary about the outburst from Deputy Doherty is that he referred to my appearance as being a waste of his time and he said the answer I am giving is a joke. Every time I am invited to come to this committee, I come in at the first opportunity, every single time. I am here now having received the invitation from this committee just last week, no doubt at Deputy Doherty’s request. I will continue to come in and do this because it is my obligation as a member of Government.

As I do that, it is equally important that I point out the inconsistencies and risks that the Deputy is bringing forward. A moment ago, he acknowledged to me the risks that are there in the approach he is taking.