Varadkar: Politicians not above the law

Transport Minister Leo Varadkar has said that politicians cannot be above the law.

He was speaking after Wexford Independent TD Mick Wallace revealed he has agreed a €2.1m settlement with Revenue for the underpayment of VAT by his construction firm.

Minister Varadkar said making a false tax return is a serious offence which would result in a very quick prosecution in other countries.

He refused to be drawn specifically on the position of Deputy Wallace, but said the incident further tarnishes the image of politicians.

"It does....and for the vast majority of politicians who are honest people who obey the law and pay their taxes, it's very hard to see other people in our parliament who break the law, don't pay their taxes and encourage other people not to pay their taxes," he said.

"Deputy Wallace is one of those," he added.

Fianna Fáil today issued a statement calling on the Dáil standards committee to make a swift decision on whether Mr Wallace should be formally reprimanded for dodging his taxes.

The TD cannot be forced to resign unless he is declared bankrupt or imprisoned for at least six months.

But the Dáil can express its disapproval with a motion of censure.

Health Minister James Reilly meanwhile said Deputy Wallace will have to face due process."

"It's absolutely unacceptable for someone not to pay their due taxes," he said.

"I understand a settlement has been made; and that he will have to face up to his responsibilities."

Labour bankbencher Aodhan O'Riordan has meanwhile broken ranks as the first coalition member to openly call on Wallace to resign his seat.

Deputy O'Riordan said that while he believes Deputy Wallace should stand down, he admitted that he cannot be forced to.

"It does come down to the individual at the end of the day," Deputy O'Riordan said.

"Nobody can force Mr Wallace to resign.

"I actually think he should resign… I think his position in the Dáil is incompatible with how his affairs were handled.

"I think there's a huge inconsistency there."

Update: Ceann Comhairle Seán Barrett has requested the Dáil's Standards in Public Office Commission investigate the conduct of Deputy Wallace.