We know that the Tánaiste's party has carried out an internal investigation into the inappropriate behaviour of a sitting Fine Gael Senator towards a female member of staff working in the Oireachtas. We know that a very substantial sum of money was donated to a charity on foot of the outcome of that investigation. We know also that the Senator in question was selected by the Fine Gael Party and endorsed by the Tánaiste, as its leader, on two occasions after this investigation. What we do not know is what the Tánaiste and senior people in his party knew about this affair.

I ask the Tánaiste to answer the serious questions that exist in respect of this matter. Every person who works in the Oireachtas has the right to a safe place to work. A substantial amount of money was paid by the Tánaiste's party or persons in his party to charity regarding an incident concerning a female member of staff. He has been given plenty of chances to answer questions relating to this matter. I ask him to please indicate that he will do so.

I am conscious of the comments of the Ceann Comhairle in relation of this matter and am respectful of them. This issue was raised in the House by the Deputy's colleague Deputy Farrell two weeks ago. I commented on the matter then and I have also commented on it in the media. In doing so, at all times I have been very conscious of the privacy of the individual involved and their wish for no further public comment regarding this matter. I am also very conscious of the ongoing disciplinary process that is under way in my party and the need not to cut across due process.

That is not acceptable.

I have also said that this was an incident that happened many years before my leadership.

I do not have any names for this business. If those who are speaking on behalf of each group would raise their hands, it would be helpful.