Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

It would not have been possible to effect the necessary speedy change of director general, which was in the best interests of FÁS, its clients and the taxpayer. At all times during this process I acted in line with the advice of officials of my own Department and the Department of Finance.

There had been considerable comment both inside and outside the House in regard to the issue of whether legal advice was obtained, and whether it was necessary to obtain legal advice on this occasion. I want to make it clear to the House that in regard to the issue of legal advice on the veracity of any possible legal action by Mr. Molloy, this did not arise as, although present, concern over legal action was not the deciding factor.

See this speech in context