David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Purcell. Our advice is that the commission of investigation rules do not preclude the committee from looking at any of these matters, nor do they apply to this committee. We received this advice today in advance of the meeting. There are numerous ongoing investigations into the Department of Justice and Equality. We have seen the retirement of a Garda Commissioner, the resignation of a Minister and a number of other issues which need to be dealt with. Mr. Purcell will excuse members of the committee and myself for being extremely concerned about what we have seen and what we have heard to date. That is the reason we were glad to have the opportunity to meet with Mr. Purcell this evening in order to attempt to clear up some of these matters.

We are looking for the truth and we are looking for facts - to know what happened on the night that the Garda Commissioner decided to retire and to find out what led up to that decision. We are advised that this is within the committee's terms of reference and that it concerns the administration of the Department. I again invite Mr. Purcell to make a statement on that matter and to inform the committee what happened on the night and the sequence of events. It could be helpful to the tribunal, because the truth cannot change if it is the truth.