Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for that answer. I very much hope we can get clarity and finality on these matters.

We are agreed that this is not a normal case. In fact, it is exceptional. We are agreed that Charleton found against Martin Callinan and that the tribunal's report has been accepted by the State. We are also agreed that it would be a contradiction in terms unthinkable for the State, on Mr. Callinan’s behalf, to enter any form of defence. That simply would not make any sense at all.

The Taoiseach said this matter is being reviewed, which I welcome. When will we have the outcome of that review? When will we know for certain that not a red cent of taxpayers’ money will be used to defend Mr. Callinan? If this case is settled - I agree with the Taoiseach that it ought to be and speedily - will Mr. Callinan and others be pursued for costs?

See this speech in context