Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

As I said, Deputy Cooper-Flynn is neither above nor below the law. Most people would accept that she is entitled to due process and that there should be full accountability. Neither I nor anyone else should rush to judgment until we have all the facts. Deputy Cooper-Flynn took a civil action for defamation and we are aware of the outcome. She subsequently chose to appeal the decision. Her position as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the previous general election was in accordance with party procedure. I understand that her appeal is due to be heard shortly and I do not want to say anything that would prejudice that.

Regarding suing the newspaper, I have never sued a newspaper in my 27 years in this House and I do not intend to do so now. Deputy Kenny asked me a third question.

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