16 September 1999 Edition
Tribune ``misleading''
While welcoming the continuing scrutiny of the performance of and payments to Oireachtas members, Sinn Féin TD Caoimhghín O Caoláin has said that the table published in the Sunday Tribune on 12 September was ``misleading''.
The main front page story of the Tribune said ``Top earning TDs have poor Dáil record'' and a table inside highlighted how some of those who claim the most expenses are also among those who have voted least in the Dáil. The Sinn Féin TD is among those who claim least in expenses but he is also lower down on the voting record. He explained:
``The assumption in the article is that not voting means that TDs are not present in Leinster House on occasions for which they have claimed expenses. In my own case, I am selective as to when I vote. I attend every week of sittings, with few exceptions, but do not participate in all votes.
``Many of the votes called by Fine Gael and Labour are simply opposition for opposition's sake, parliamentary cod-acting. The voting record also gives no indication of contributions to debates. Many TDs speak seldom or not at all whereas the record will show that I have contributed regularly on a wide range of issues.''
The main front page story of the Tribune said ``Top earning TDs have poor Dáil record'' and a table inside highlighted how some of those who claim the most expenses are also among those who have voted least in the Dáil. The Sinn Féin TD is among those who claim least in expenses but he is also lower down on the voting record. He explained:
``The assumption in the article is that not voting means that TDs are not present in Leinster House on occasions for which they have claimed expenses. In my own case, I am selective as to when I vote. I attend every week of sittings, with few exceptions, but do not participate in all votes.
``Many of the votes called by Fine Gael and Labour are simply opposition for opposition's sake, parliamentary cod-acting. The voting record also gives no indication of contributions to debates. Many TDs speak seldom or not at all whereas the record will show that I have contributed regularly on a wide range of issues.''