The Taoiseach has given notice in writing that he wishes to make a personal explanation. I have decided to permit a statement by him.
Personal Explanation by Taoiseach.
I wish to correct the record in regard to a matter of detail contained in my reply to parliamentary questions concerning Mr. Paddy Duffy. Mr. Duffy had informed my office on Monday that he sought legal advice in 1996 as to whether he would have to declare his directorship of the Rightword Company under the Ethics in Public Office Act. He has now informed my office, having checked with his solicitor, Ivor Fitzpatrick and Company Limited that while he did discuss the general issue with them in 1996, he had two further meetings with them in January 1998 to take specific legal advice before complet ing his statement of interests form. I wish to amplify the record accordingly.