Jim D'Arcy (Fine Gael)

I support the call from many quarters for an independent inquiry into "The Frontline" presidential debate. RTE is the national broadcaster and as such it is important, as Senator Mullen has stated, that trust is maintained in it. It has been suggested that we hold an internal inquiry. There is a saying in Haggardstown: "Ask my brother am I a liar." I am not implying anything, other than to say that this is not the route to take. We need an independent inquiry. If there had been an internal inquiry into FÁS, we would not have got to the bottom of matters. If there had been an internal inquiry into the Dr. Neary case, we would not have known the answer. It would be in RTE's own interest, as well as ensuring the protection of the democratic process, that we have an independent inquiry. I ask the Leader to consider whether he thinks, as I do, that there should be an independent inquiry.