The Labour leader called on Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Progressive Democrats to return donations made to the parties by businessman Mr Denis O'Brien, following revelations at the Moriarty tribunal.

Mr Ruairi Quinn, who was questioning the Taoiseach on the Order of Business, said: "In view of the alarming revelations that emerged from Dublin Castle yesterday, and the Taoiseach's repeated failure to publish his plans for political party and election funding, will he now set an example as president of Fianna Fail and return to Mr Denis O'Brien the £50,000 donation received?

"Perhaps the Tanaiste and Fine Gael might do the same in the interests of politics for every elected member of this House."

Mr Ahern said he could assure Mr Quinn that the Government intended to enact all 10 Bills in that area this year. "The Government will have no change of heart on any of this legislation and we hope to have it all passed before Christmas."

Mr Quinn replied: "I take it from his contribution that the Taoiseach will not be refunding the money, notwithstanding the dismay of many people about the relationship between business and the funding of political parties."

Accusing the Government of delaying legislation, he added: "Repeatedly, throughout this year, the Taoiseach has undertaken to deal with this issue. What more do we need to see coming out of Dublin Castle before the Taoiseach is shamed into action, and before the country can have faith in politics?"

Mr Ahern said: "I could be drawn, but maybe I should not." Mr Quinn said: "Please do."

Mr Ahern said: "Legislation is not what caused the matters now being dealt with by the tribunals. When the history of these matters is written, it will be interesting to see why Government procedures were not followed, leading to those decisions."

Mr Quinn said that procedures had been followed. "Is the Taoiseach referring to Carysfort College?"

The Minister for Defence, Mr Smith, said Mr Quinn knew what the Taoiseach was referring to.