Dáil committee set to investigate TD Wallace

Independent TD Mick Wallace looks set to be investigated by the Dáil committee on members interests.

Ceann Comhairle Sean Barratt made the request today in light of the ongoing controversy over the Wexford Deputy's tax affairs.

The Ceann Comhairle has now formally written to TD Thomas Pringle, Chair of the Committee on Members Interests, asking him to examine the matter, with a view to launching a full investigation.

Fianna Fáil is also pointing out that the committee has the power to refer the matter to the DPP, who could consider whether there could be a criminal prosecution.

TDs and Ministers have today been incresing the pressure on the Independent TD for Wexford who admitted yesterday that his company MJ Wallace Ltd knowingly made a false VAT declaration.

The first TD to openly suggest that he should resign his seat was Labour backbencher Aodhan O'Riordan.

"He basically falsified tax returns, he hid €1.4m from the taxpayer," he said.

"Taxes are needed to run things."

He was quickly followed by Waterford Independent TD John Halligan, who told WLR that he intends to meet Deputy Wallace at the soonest opportunity.

"I'm not going to sit on the fence like many other TDs are doing, and I'll call it as it is," he said.

"I don't think he'd be able to explain to me what happened, and if that's the case, I'll ask him myself personally to step down."