Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the Taoiseach's stated preference for certainty being enshrined in whatever booklet applies, be it the Cabinet handbook or otherwise. Indeed, the Taoiseach might send me a copy of the Cabinet handbook. I have never seen it but it is worth examining as well. What method will be employed in the review of the code of conduct? The Taoiseach said a review is under way. Who is conducting it? Is there is a timeframe within which they will report? Will the recommendations made be brought before the House for further scrutiny and debate and for the input of Members of the Oireachtas? Does the Taoiseach have a role in the review? Given his comments today, is it not important that the Taoiseach's view on the importance of certainty in this area should be placed in the code of conduct? What steps will the Taoiseach take, following this matter being raised this morning?

Earlier this morning the Taoiseach said, in response to Deputy Kenny, that the Deputy was "dead right" and that the Taoiseach wished that things were otherwise. With regard to former Deputy Parlon's case and with no implication of wrong doing, does the Taoiseach agree that, given the portfolio Mr. Parlon held and the post he took up with such speed following the general election, he might have been better advised to wait for a reasonable period of time? We accept that people, following their years of service in this institution, have the right to a future in employment. However, standards must be set and the code of conduct must reflect them. I agree with the Taoiseach that certainty should be enshrined therein.

See this speech in context