Taoiseach defends Independents' stance

TAOISEACH BRIAN Cowen sharply criticised Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin after he claimed that “no Independent deputies…

TAOISEACH BRIAN Cowen sharply criticised Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin after he claimed that “no Independent deputies support this Government, only former Independent deputies”. The Cavan-Monaghan TD said “every one of those former Independent deputies who vote consistently with Government, endorse all this Government’s policies, including its decimation of the health services”.

Mr Cowen said “three deputies have made the choice that they want to support the broad thrust of Government policy on the basis of coming to an agreement to do things for their constituents. They are entitled to do that.” Mr Ó Caoláin might not agree with it “but you do not have to carry on as if you are superior to anybody else. You are not superior,” he added.

Marie O'Halloran

Marie O'Halloran

Marie O'Halloran is Parliamentary Correspondent of The Irish Times