Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

Through this Bill, not through motions such as this, public confidence in tribunals can be assured. Since 1997 the legal and administrative framework within which politicians at local and national levels operate has been transformed. Many of the abuses which have been dealt with at the tribunal have been addressed comprehensively. We need the tribunal's work to proceed to a conclusion, which includes treating all persons fairly and to the same standards. It should also involve seeking to challenge those who have caused it serious difficulty through attempting to manipulate it. The legislation we have enacted for the tribunal and the resources which the Government has provided for it ensure it is free to carry out its work with full independence.

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