The Progressive Democrats today hit back at claims that there was conflict of interest in former Minister of State Tom Parlon leaving politics to head up the Construction Industry Federation (CIF).
The one-time favourite for the party leadership following the resignation of Michael McDowell surprised observers yesterday by announcing his decision to quit politics for a €250,000 job with the CIF.
PD spokesman
His move was criticised by Labour Party deputy leader Liz McManus who said there was a potential conflict of interest because as minister at the Office of Public Works (OPW), Mr Parlon was responsible for the awarding of contracts for "virtually all major building work undertaken by the State".
She said companies vying for this "lucrative business" would now be represented by someone who knows the "OPW's overall plans for the future and their approach to the awarding of contracts".
A spokesman for the Progressive Democrats said Mr Parlon's position was "not a conflict of interest". His job would be to act in the interests of all the CIF's 3,000 members, he said.
"If Tom Parlon were to become chief executive of a leading construction firm I could understand people saying 'my gosh, he'll come looking for contracts', but it would be contrary to the activity of such a body to be favouring one company over another," the spokesman said.
Mr Parlon was precluded from involvement in the awarding of tenders when a minister, he added.
The CIF made a statement today formally announcing Mr Parlon's appointment effective from early Autumn.
"The Federation looks forward to his leadership as the industry faces the challenges of implementing the NDP [National Development Plan], and meets the challenge of climate change," the statement added.