By Martin Banks - 24th February 2009
They appear to have misled in order to embarrass and discredit an honourable man
Libertas
The anti Lisbon treaty group Libertas has published photographs allegedly showing documents signed by Estonian MP Igor Grazin supporting its application for EU funds.
The photographs show photocopies of Grazin's Estonian parliamentary members pass, his passport and documents with his signature attached.
Libertas has released the pictures to end what it calls the "disgraceful" allegations that the organisation acted improperly with respect to Grazin.
Libertas founder Declan Ganley say the documents prove that any suggestion that it cheated or misled the parliament is an "absolute lie."
"As a consequence, Libertas fully expects the parliament to withdraw its partisan investigation," he said.
He singled out the Liberal group in parliament for particular criticism, saying it had "engaged in the most reprehensible bullying and dishonesty."
"They appear to have misled in order to embarrass and discredit an honourable man, and in order to subvert the very processes that are in place to protect the people of Europe and their democratic representatives."
The Irish businessman said Libertas had "no option" but to publish photos of Grazin's signature and a photocopy of his passport.
"We have engaged with this process in good faith. It is beyond disgusting that there are elements in the European parliament, elected to serve the people of Europe, who seem more interested in using filthy and underhanded political smears to damage those who question them than they are in furthering democracy."
The row flared after Libertas won formal status as a European political party only to see the decision rescinded a few hours later when serious questions began to be raised about the legitimacy of its political backers, including Grazin.
Parliament's bureau is currently reviewing its decision to grant party political status to Libertas, entitling it to €200,000 EU funds.
Have your say...
Please enter your comments below.