The Minister for Education has defended the use of resources in his department to compile briefing documents for Fianna Fál election candidates.
Noel Dempsey said the packs were customised for Fianna Fáil election candidates but similar packs were available for candidates of other parties if required.
The minister said his department frequently provided briefings to opposition party members as well as an information service to the general public, the media and all public representatives from all parties.
