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

The Taoiseach did not seem to answer the one question I put to him about the need to commission an independent, robust, forensic audit of the FAI's finances. They have been clouded too much in obfuscation to date. We simply have not been told anything as to why such a loan was necessitated or, for example, what the debt is in respect of the Aviva. How is the FAI performing relative to the Irish Rugby Football Union, IRFU, in this regard? I accept the Taoiseach's point that the FAI is not a public body; nonetheless, the State has invested very heavily in it.

I suggest the Aviva Stadium, and many other stadia around the country, could not have happened without the State's involvement. Much of the funding for the Munster Football Association's football ground at Turners Cross in Cork also came from the State. Sport Ireland is in a strong position. No one can object to the idea of an independent forensic audit. We are hearing many rumours about this issue. What is the state of the FAI's finances today? It is important that there is total transparency. We regulate charities and groups all over the country and when substantial State funds are allocated there is a public expectation that things will be above board regarding basic requirements on corporate governance and transparency in the financial position of a company. The news today that the auditors have submitted a H4 form is very worrying and suggests something is deeply wrong. The only way to clear this matter up is by carrying out an independent forensic audit.

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