I refer to the financial strain which the Taoiseach has explained he was under. In 1992, during the period of financial stress outlined by the Taoiseach, it is interesting to note that while he was Minister for Finance he reduced the tax on oil and gas exploration finds from 50% to 25%.

What is wrong with that?

Did the Taoiseach on any occasion meet with Enterprise Oil's former chief executive, John McGoldrick, who has been known to socialise with Mr. Des Richardson, former Fianna Fáil fundraiser and friend of the Taoiseach who was responsible for the whip-round for him?

I do not know the gentleman and I doubt that I have met him but——

How is it that the Taoiseach can spend so much money——

——I meet many people in my political life but the individual that Deputy Cowley mentioned is not a friend of mine.

——to bamboozle the people of Rossport today? There was a disgraceful attack on the people of Rossport, which is costing a bomb and for what purpose?

I ask Deputy Cowley to give way to Deputy Bruton.