Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Fine Gael Party put down a motion of no confidence in myself last Thursday, so we decided that we would clear the decks and deal with that. Everyone will understand that it is a prerogative of the Government to do that, given the serious nature of the motion that was put down.

The Saville report is being published today. It is a very important day for the families and for everyone who has had concerns on these matters. It is a very lengthy report and perhaps it might be best for people to read the report and consider it in the House next week. I would be anxious that the House would have statements on the issue.

The other matter raised by Deputy Ó Caoláin can be dealt with by the Minister for Health and Children and there is ongoing accountability to the House in respect of any of these health care issues. We considered that the confidence motion must be confronted head on.

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