Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I wish to raise an issue that is current and relevant. On the first meeting of the House two weeks ago, Members suggested that were such issues to be discussed, perhaps more interest would be taken in the Seanad's work. I wish to raise the unexplained payments to the most senior political figure in the land, that is, the outcome to date of the Mahon tribunal. I call for a debate on standards in public office because the issues that have arisen at this juncture diminish us all. This affects the standing of all politicians, casts aspersions and creates a general belief to the effect that there is no integrity in politics. All are tarred with the same brush. This has a corrosive effect in that it becomes expected that this is what occurs in politics and among all politicians.

Ireland is a democracy based on the rule of law and is a member state of the European Union, which has been enlarged to encompass eastern Europe. Ireland and the European Union have made all possible efforts to ensure a reduction in political corruption in eastern Europe. We preach to the eastern European countries and have made this a condition of membership.

It is important, however, to reflect on this matter ourselves. I refer to a debate in the Seanad on what constitutes the standards to which we adhere. By our silence, Members can create the impression that there are no standards. It is now established that a sum of €300,000 in unexplained payments to the Taoiseach exists.