McGrath steps down from Technical Group
The Technical Group of left leaning TDs has been further damaged after chairman Finian McGrath stepped down.
The Dublin North deputy has been angered by controversies surrounding developer turned politician Mick Wallace.
“Quite frankly, I am completely fed-up with the actions of Deputy Wallace who is distracting people from the real political issues of this country,” he said.
But Mr McGrath said he has not decided whether to resign as a member of the Technical Group.
Tax evading TD Mr Wallace was told by the group last week he was not welcome after he signalled his intent to rejoin several months after appearing on the Revenue’s defaulters’ list.
Mr Wallace was also under fire for admitting he threatened to hire a hitman in order to recover a debt during his building days.
Under Dail rules he cannot be barred from the Technical Group, designed to secure speaking time in the house for TDs.
Mr McGrath said: “I am also appalled at the procedures in Dail Eireann which rules force a group of Independent TDs to have a member that the vast majority don’t want.
“Wallace’s media comments on ’Loyalty’ – loyalty to what? Tax evasion? Pension Fund Scam?
“His recent remarks on the use of a ’hitman” This remark is outrageous for a member of the Oireachtas particularly in the current crime crisis.
“He showed a complete lack of respect to his Independent colleagues. All TDs should be accountable to the Dail and citizens of this state.”
Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett will decide whether Mr Wallace can be part of the Technical Group.
