Mark Daly (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the comments regarding the late Deputy and former Senator, Nicky McFadden. Her death is a sad loss to these Houses and to public life, but above all to her family.

I second the amendment to the Order of Business that the Attorney General come before the House today, as is allowed for under Standing Order 56, to clarify what is going on within the Department of Justice and Equality. The Attorney General made no bones about having statements issued on her behalf when it came to the recall of the Seanad last August. We have the power within this House to bring her to the Chamber so that she may be heard. The people of Ireland would like to see her come before the Oireachtas, rather than the media, to explain what is happening in the Department and in her office. The inquiry that is being established is only a smoke screen to deflect from the difficulties of the Minister for Justice and Equality. The Attorney General must be held to account on this issue. She cannot be allowed to hide behind the veil of being legal adviser to the Government. She is responsible to the Irish people and should be heard in this House.