Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

How does the Taoiseach draw a distinction between saying he is opposed to State boards being packed on the eve of an election and saying that he will proceeded with 400 appointments between now and the general election, as has been reported recently? "Packed" is only a derogatory term applied to the appointments. It seems the Taoiseach is proceeding as he said he would not at the last Question Time.

May I also ask the Taoiseach about the answer he just gave me concerning the reform of this legislation as promised at the time of the Paddy the plasterer affair? He said the Bill is in the Seanad. On reflection, can he say if that is the case? I am advised it is not.

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