John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

Suggestions that the Tánaiste in some way influenced the report are politically motivated and unfair and they cast aspersions on the reputation of Mr. Travers.

If we are going to play politics with this issue, we must be honest and accurate in our interpretations of the report. One can quote from various different sections of the report. In reality, however, all the issues raised, conclusions reached and recommendations made in it must be taken in context. We cannot be selective or engage in cherrypicking.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Kelly is taking the brunt of the blame for this matter at present. We must be conscious of his long public service and also admissions in his report, be they in respect of errors of judgment or omission on his part.

Lessons have been learned and I hope the recommendations outlined in the report will be embraced by the Government and implemented as soon as possible. We must ensure that a scenario will not be created whereby taxpayers will be exposed to a huge bill by people who do not deserve to make claims. Those who make genuine claims should be acknowledged. I regret the fact that certain members of the legal profession and politicians are choosing to become ambulance chasers on this issue.