Statement by the Minister for Transport, Mr. Séamus Brennan TD

On 24th November 2002 I instructed the Secretary-General of the Department of Transport, Ms Julie ONeill, to carry out a full investigation into allegations published on that day in the Sunday Independent newspaper. I gave a public assurance then that once the  report was completed I would immediately make public the findings. I am now publishing in full the findings of that investigation.

I welcome the clear and decisive results of the investigation.  Public life is difficult, whichever side you are on, and to have your integrity questioned is deeply upsetting and hurtful.

I look forward now to getting on with the policy work which is what politics is really about.

ENDS

29th November 2002

The Inquiry Report is attached below, as is the Minister's earlier press release announcing the setting up of the Inquiry.

Further Information: Tom Rowley  (01) 6041089      087 8124723