Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As everybody else has noted this is not the event we were expecting to debate in the Dáil today. The statement from the former Minister, as he is now, raises many more questions than it solves. It is interesting that the text of the speech circulated does not reflect Deputy Naughten's comments to the Dáil. That raises questions in itself. He said in his speech it is clear to him that the Taoiseach does not have confidence in him, which is correct, but he also indicated the Taoiseach met Mr. McCourt on numerous occasions, as had other Ministers and members of the Government throughout the process. We have very serious questions that need to be answered very quickly.

What is the relationship between this Government and Mr. McCourt that has caused the resignation of a Minister already? The Government Chief Whip is trying to rally Members and make it look like there are people on the Government benches today but everybody has probably fecked off and people do not know what is happening. He is busy trying to get Ministers to turn up so somebody might be able to answer questions. There is an entire Front Bench sitting here.

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