Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I asked the Taoiseach two questions at the outset. Is it appropriate that a member of the Fine Gael Party, a Dáil Deputy, should be so persistent in endeavouring to change the terms of reference and prevent debate in the House on a matter of such public concern? I also asked whether the Deputy approached the Taoiseach or the Minister personally on this matter. Apart from in written communication from him or his legal firm, did the Deputy approach the Taoiseach personally on the matter during this period?

Perhaps he might indicate whether he approached him on the issue. Did he approach the Minister? Is that the totality of the communications involving Deputy Alan Shatter or his legal firm? Has he written today or in the past day or two? I know that he has communicated again subsequently - I believe to the Ceann Comhairle's office. - but has he communicated with the Taoiseach on foot of his decision? Did he make a personal approach to the Taoiseach at any stage?

See this speech in context