Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It does not assist the situation to portray what I acknowledge is a serious matter in the way it is being portrayed. There is a suggestion that the precautionary principle is not being applied. However, if it was not being done in that way, there is a suggestion that a greater number of files should be looked at. As I said, the purpose is to use the precautionary principle across the board in respect of all files with which that individual may have had contact.

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