Anger over nursing home report delay
The delayed publication of the Travers Report into illegal nursing home charges today led to angry Dáil exchanges between the Taoiseach and Opposition leaders.
Health minister Mary Harney had promised to publish the 160-page document this afternoon but the Government decided to make it available tomorrow morning instead.
Mr Ahern said publication was delayed on the legal advice of the Attorney General “because of possible litigation that could arise“.
Labour leader Pat Rabbitte asked if the rumoured sackings of officials arising out of the report were warranted.
He demanded that Mr Ahern commit to a debate on the report before the by-elections and before the Dáil rises for a week for St Patrick’s Day on Thursday.
Mr Ahern replied: “I’m escaping nowhere. You’re codding yourself.”
“When will you give it to me?” asked Mr Rabbitte amid angry exchanges.
“Tomorrow, you’ll get the report,” replied Mr Ahern.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny called it a “scandalous affair” and queried about the fate of former Health minister Micheal Martin and junior colleagues. Ivor Callely and Tim O’Malley.
“We should not get into the realms of speculation,” said Mr Ahern.
