The Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, wishes to make a statement, with the permission of the House.
Personal Apology by Minister of State.
I thank Deputy Hogan for the courtesy he has extended to me. During Leaders' Questions this morning, I made remarks that I now regret having made. I regret the remarks made and I apologise sincerely if any offence was taken from the remarks. I want to make that absolutely clear — my apology to the House — as early as possible, given the interpretation that may be put on those remarks.