Tánaiste accused of running from scrutiny on trade mission

EDUCATION Minister Mary Coughlan was accused of running away from scrutiny by pressing ahead with her trade mission to America without rearranging her duties to the Dáil.

Fine Gael’s education spokesman Fergus O’Dowd said Ms Coughlan had all summer to reorganise the questions she was scheduled to take. He said the Tánaiste should have signalled that she would not be in the Dáil to fulfil the rota and answer for issues specific to her Department.

Each week ministers take turns to respond to questions on their portfolios. And on Wednesday the focus will be on education.