Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I remind the Deputy that the Government is defending a petition in the High Court. Recognising the separation of Parliament and Judiciary, moreover, I have no wish to, and will not, prejudice the upcoming hearings. I am sure my parliamentary colleagues will respect and accept the position I am in.

Ms Justice Denham stated in regard to the case: "In all the circumstances of this case, as have appeared before the court, I am satisfied that the respondents acted in a bone fide manner." Mr. Justice Fennelly observed: "I have no doubt that this was done bona fide and with consciousness that the decision in McKenna had to be respected." Likewise, Mr. Justice O'Donnell stated: "It should be said that the plaintiff made it clear that he was prepared to accept that the Department had acted in good faith in preparing the campaign and did not challenge it on that ground." I refer the Deputy to those aspects of the Supreme Court's findings.

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