andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether it is the practice for a Department to institute legal proceedings in a matter of serious public importance without first referring the matter to the Attorney General and his office.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Legal Proceedings by Departments: Reference to Attorney General.
4.
As far as I am aware, it is not the practice of Departments to institute legal proceedings in a matter of serious public importance without first referring the matter to the Attorney General.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that this question of illegal practices by an insurance company is a matter of grave public importance? Would the Taoiseach say how the Attorney General in his State capacity could be consulted on behalf of the public in regard to a prosecution when, in his private capacity, he was defending this same company which was found in the High Court to be guilty of illegal gambling practices?
I understand the Deputy has addressed a question to the Minister for Industry and Commerce—
Would the Taoiseach, as head of the Government, give, in reply to that question, his view in regard to that matter?
I have done so.
Is it not a fact that the Department of Industry and Commerce is subject to his control, as is the Department of Local Government and the other Departments? Would the Taoiseach say whether or not it is possible for the Attorney General to be in two places at the one time? Dead silence—not a word.