AN "unnamed Government source" was criticised by Mr Alan Shatter (FG, Dublin South) for launching "a despicable personal attack" on him.

He said this related to his alleged motives behind his call for the payment of aggravated damages to the victims of the hepatitis C scandal.

"I do not believe that the Taoiseach or any Government Minister is responsible for the comments made. I regard the suggestion that expressing support for the payment of aggravated damages to the victims of the BTSB was motivated by some perceived personal electoral gain as contemptible.

"It is unfortunate that on occasion credibility is given to cowardly, political spin doctors hiding in the shadows of the corridors of Leinster House who lack the courage to publicly identify themselves and say openly what they have to say."

Mr Shatter was speaking during the debate on the report of the hepatitis C tribunal.