Cowen defending Coughlan a ‘procedure breach’

A ROW has erupted after Taoiseach Brian Cowen stepped in to defend the Tánaiste’s comments on the economy last week, instead of Mary Coughlan explaining the situation.

On Wednesday he used a Dáil statement to “clarify” a radio interview in which Ms Coughlan said the economy was “under control”. He said, since the new budget was announced on Tuesday, the Tánaiste was being attacked for comments taken out of context.

“I want to clarify an issue that has been thrown at the Tánaiste on an ongoing basis. The Tánaiste spoke in respect of control of our public expenditure and the quotes are there for anybody who wishes to read them,” he said.