Fine Gael will make another attempt in the Dail next week to compel the EU Commissioner, Mr Padraig Flynn, to make a public statement about the alleged £50,000 he received from Mr Tom Gilmartin.
Having balked at the idea of pressing a motion of no confidence in the Commissioner, Fine Gael has decided to request the Clerk of the Dail, Mr Kieran Coughlan, to ask the Flood tribunal whether Mr Flynn is "absolutely constrained" from making a public statement.
A private members' motion to this effect will be debated in the Dail on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. The indications last night were that Fianna Fail would wish to oppose it while the Progressive Democrats and Labour will consider it early next week.
The move to table such a technical motion was taken by Fine Gael after it had received a letter from the solicitor to the Flood tribunal, on behalf of the sole chairman, Mr Justice Flood, yesterday.
Acknowledging receipt of a letter from Fine Gael on Thursday, the response stated: "The sole member does not wish to be unhelpful, but considers that it would be likely to create an undesirable precedent if the tribunal were to comment to any political party or individual in relation to the confidential working of the tribunal.
"However, the sole member would, of course, respond to any request that might be addressed to him by the Clerk of the Dail on behalf of the Oireachtas."
Arising from this, Fine Gael has tabled a motion to ask ail, Mr Coughlan, on behalf of its members, to obtain from the tribunal information as to the advice it is claimed by Mr Flynn constrains him from making a full, immediate statement clarifying his position about allegations that he received £50,000 in 1989.
A spokesman for the PDs last night said the Tanaiste, Ms Harney, would consult her party colleagues on the matter next week.
