Dáil debates

Tuesday, 3 December 2019

10:05 pm

Photo of Michael LowryMichael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent)
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I have been a Member of this House for 33 years and I have never heard such slanderous, vicious, malicious, vindictive and false allegations as have been made against me here tonight. I want to put on the record of this House that I am not a convicted tax cheat and I am not a convicted tax dodger. In fact, when I was brought to court, the main charges were withdrawn and the only mark against my reputation in relation to taxation was that in 2006 my company filed an incorrect corporation tax return. Let me clarify that it was incorrect because we had overpaid tax. In fact, the judge went on to comment to the effect that I was a very conscientious taxpayer and I would like the comments that were made in this House tonight to be withdrawn.

Photo of Pat GallagherPat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Deputy Paul Murphy has an opportunity, not to make a statement-----

Photo of Paul MurphyPaul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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I will not be withdrawing the remarks.

Photo of Pat GallagherPat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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-----but to withdraw his comments if he wishes.

Photo of Paul MurphyPaul Murphy (Dublin South West, Solidarity)
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No. Deputy Lowry also failed to keep proper sets of accounts and he was disqualified as a director. He is a convicted tax cheat.

Photo of Ruth CoppingerRuth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)
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He was found guilty of tax corruption as well.