The Taoiseach said the Government had no arrangement with the Limerick West TD, Mr Michael Collins, to support it in Dáil votes.
Mr Collins resigned the Fianna Fáil whip after a revelation of tax difficulties. Mr Ahern was asked by Mr Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (SF, Cavan-Monaghan) to "explain to the House the ethical basis for agreements with Deputy Collins or other Independent members of the House." Mr Ahern said that there was no agreement with Mr Collins.