The Taoiseach is showing "contempt and gross arrogance" towards the Dáil by fleeing from it at every opportunity, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny claimed today.
During Leaders' Questions this morning Mr Kenny criticised Bertie Ahern's decision to stay away in favour of addressing the Ictu biennial delegate conference in Bundoran, Co Donegal. Mr Kenny queried why the engagement couldn't be re-arranged to suit the business of the Dáil.
Speaking in the Dáil, he said: "Ictu has more respect for this House and its proceedings than the Taoiseach and it would have re-arranged its programme for the Taoiseach of the country at short notice in the same way they have facilitated the address of Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.
"I think it is a mark of contempt. It is contemptuous treatment of this House and arrogance of gross order that on every opportunity he has he flees from this House and doesn't come in to do his duty as he should."
The Taoiseach was represented in the Dáil by Tánaiste and Finance Minister Brian Cowen. The Dáil is due to rise for its 11-week summer recess tomorrow and will not meet again until late September.