Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

My thoughts today are with the people of Enniscorthy in County Wexford and the unspeakable tragedy which is unfolding before our eyes. It is a scar on the conscience of the provision of our mental health services. I do not wish to dwell on this appalling tragedy today.

As we approach the Taoiseach's naming of the date for the dissolution of the 29th Dáil, the people have a clear choice between a tired and jaded Government and the opportunity to elect a Fine Gael and Labour Government full of energy and commitment. Confusion seems to exist among the Taoiseach's backbenchers throughout the country because when one is so long in office it is difficult to distinguish between the people's interest, property and resources and those of the party. This is why, as we approach the death knell of the 29th Dáil, I want reassurance from the Taoiseach.

Prior to the 2004 local and European elections, at least two Ministers used the official resources of the State to support party political campaigns. The then Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Noel Dempsey, commandeered material from the Department of Education and Science and the then Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment commandeered the resources of that Department. On 28 April 2004, the Taoiseach confirmed they had breached the code of conduct and quite rightly reminded all Ministers to comply with that code of conduct. His words were, "The rules are tight now and we must comply with them". I accept that.

The Taoiseach will name the day shortly, as is his sole and personal prerogative. Is it still his view that there is no breach by office holders in respect of such material under the code of conduct and there is no excuse for breaching the code which prohibits the use of public resources for party political purposes? On the eve of this great battle, will the Taoiseach assure the House that Ministers in his Government are not using and will not use official facilities and resources for party political purposes?

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