David Norris (Independent)

I raised this matter and it was not challenged. Questions along these lines in support of what I say were asked by members of the Senator's party. Questions were asked in the other House by Deputies Ruairí Quinn, Phil Hogan, Ciarán Cuffe - who is no longer in the Oireachtas - and Jimmy Deenihan. It is a non-contentious matter among ourselves, although I agree with the Senator that it is very serious. It is troubling to have to raise the matter.

I am grateful to the Senator for inquiring about the relevance of whistleblowing. This man blew the whistle on a practice that was very dangerous for this country with regard to its position in the European Union. For his trouble he was rewarded by first being framed - an act which has been exposed - and then by losing his job. He was a whistleblower and he paid for it. I would have thought that was germane to the debate but if not, I stand corrected.