Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

The Taoiseach referred to the former special adviser who has now taken up a position with the HSE but no decision has been taken to replace him. Does the Taoiseach intend to replace him?

I read in the newspapers that the programme manager for the Tánaiste has departed. Will that position be filled? I am not sure why the Tánaiste would need a programme manager, as the Taoiseach has him where he wants him after yesterday. Will the post be filled anyway?

Is it true, as reported in one of the newspapers at the weekend, that another of the special advisers is taken up full-time in advising the Taoiseach and acting as a go-between with the various tribunals? On the face of it, that seems to be a fairly extraordinary mission. At the end of all of this, the man ought to be properly rewarded. I hope there is a bonus system in place.

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