Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

I have always felt that a sense of fair play and concern for human rights is synonymous with public service. People in public life are in a very privileged position. That is especially true of Members of the Oireachtas. I am sure we all measure carefully the consequences of what we say on the perception of the character of others. It seems to me, having listened to the debate for a long period, that fair play is not being extended to the Taoiseach. I say that because he has made an exceptional contribution to the life of this country. He is possibly one of the most successful Taoisigh in the history of the State. I can only outline my personal reaction. I have always found him to be a honourable, likeable and accessible gentleman. I cannot accept that he has been involved in corruption in any way. It is possible that the nature of the tribunal, with its lack of due process, contributes to an environment in which that is allowed to happen.