Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

The Taoiseach has a majority with the Progressive Democrats so it would be interesting to find out why this arrangement with certain Independent Deputies is continuing. Is Deputy Cooper-Flynn considered part of the arrangement? Is the Taoiseach conveying the message that former Fianna Fáil Deputies who were difficult are to be rewarded for creating difficulties? What message does that give to Fianna Fáil backbenchers? The Taoiseach mentioned briefings. Is a particular representation facility offered? Does it go to each Department or does it go through the Government Chief Whip? Has it been streamlined in that fashion? Are civil servants availed of to provide this service? Is it the case that this politicises the Civil Service and are certain people picked out for preferential treatment? Should the same service not be provided to all Deputies so the Government cannot be accused of politicising the Civil Service?

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