Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes welcomed the Cathaoirleach's remarks about recent events, as I am sure we all do, and the clarity with which he expressed them. The Senator also raised the matter of the Minister for Education and Science and spoke about the independence of civil servants and the Taoiseach's remarks. As I understand, when the Taoiseach found out the innocent nature of the material, he changed his mind. The material was not all delivered in huge glossy labelled packs.

They were simple facts which can be accessed on the website or from officials within the Department. I do not know the full facts but this is what I have gleaned. The Minister, Deputy Noel Dempsey, has been very open in saying the matter has been referred to the Standards in Public Office Commission, which will deliver its verdict on the matter. He said he will abide by that verdict.

In reply to Senator O'Toole, anybody who wants the facts should have them. They should not be the preserve of a particular party. No one should have a difficulty with that position. He said there was great cynicism in education circles about the matter. However, when the full facts are known and when the Standards in Public Office Commission completes its report, it will be clear that it involved facts that are available to anyone who wishes to access them.