Deasy interviewed over breach of Dáil bar smoking ban
The Fine Gael deputy was questioned in an office in Leinster House for over half an hour yesterday morning.
Neither Deputy Deasy nor the Dublin South West Area Health Board would comment on the outcome of the meeting yesterday. A spokesperson for the health board would only say the investigation was ongoing and the board wasn’t in a position to comment further at present.
Bar staff working in the Dáil bar on the night in question are also being interviewed about the incident.
The Waterford TD lost his portfolio as Fine Gael justice spokesman after he smoked three cigarettes in the bar on Tuesday night of last week, less than 48 hours after the nationwide smoking ban came into force. The investigation will also consider whether John Deasy continued to be served drink while he smoked in the bar. It’s believed he had three pints while in the bar that night.
Deputy Deasy broke his silence on the matter earlier this week, saying he couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about. However, he said he understood that he has broken the law and is willing to face whatever penalty is imposed. He could face a fine of €3,000.
