The former Supreme Court Judge, Mr Hugh O'Flaherty, said last night he would "reflect" on the Taoiseach's suggestion that he give his account of his role in the Philip Sheedy affair.
Mr O'Flaherty told The Irish Times that he would reflect overnight and probably explain in due course his position. He indicated he might say today if he would be making a statement on the matter.
Asked if he was surprised at the Taoiseach's comments in an interview with Eamon Dunphy on Today FM, he said: "Nothing surprises me any more."
Mr O'Flaherty said he had no problem with people disagreeing with him but he resented the way he has been insulted over the issue in recent weeks.
"I don't think I have ever insulted anyone in my life. People have gone out deliberately to say insulting things about me.
"Why should I be a political football? I can't command. I am only a single person," Mr O'Flaherty said.
He had "no great problem" in explaining his role in the Sheedy case. But he said he had already given a good account to the former chief justice, Mr Justice Liam Hamilton, and "What more could I do?"
Mr O'Flaherty said he did not owe anybody anything.
Asked if he would still be taking the job, he said: "Why not?" He would not be turning it down because he had been "heaped with abuse".