Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I have a question for the Leader. An issue is raised about the publication of confidential material in the possession of the tribunal, whether it is required to be circulated to interested parties and the legal obligations in regard to disclosure of information. What is the basis of this statement? Is it an attempt to target The Irish Times or is it some form of retaliation against that newspaper? I address my question to the Leader and the Deputy Leader because in the other House, the Deputy Leader indicated that there would be a radical review of this Bill before it was reintroduced. However, the briefing paper merely refers to some minor technical adjustments. Our leader and I have tabled a motion which has not yet been taken.

The motion reads:

That Seanad Éireann expresses its full confidence in the integrity of the Mahon Tribunal (Tribunal of Inquiry Into Certain Planning Matters and Payments); and rejects all attempts to undermine the work of the Tribunal.