Was a letter from the Chief State Solicitor, which was received by a legal representative of Senator Paudie Coffey, written on instruction of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government or the Government? The letter asks that, in the circumstances, the Senator should not proceed with proceedings before the High Court in regard to a by-election in Waterford and a similar case in Dublin South. It seems the finding of the High Court has now been acted upon by the Government as the by-election in Donegal South-West is proceeding. In that case, what is the purpose of taking a costly appeal to the Supreme Court? Why was the Chief State Solicitor instructed to write to a citizen requesting that legal proceedings not be taken to the High Court for two by-elections to be held in the very same circumstances and on the same principle as the Donegal South-West by-election?

See this item in context