21 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Finance whether he or his Department or the Revenue Commissioners made representations to secure the early release of a revenue official who was sentenced in 1995 to a lenghty term of imprisonment for fraud in relation to public moneys; whether he was consulted about the official's release before it happened; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11675/97]

No representations were made by me, my Department or the Revenue Commissioners in connection with the release from prison of the individual concerned. Neither were there any consultations involving myself, my Department or the Revenue Commissioners.