James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In response to the Deputy's final point, I can categorically state that this is not the Department's approach and it is certainly not my approach nor that of my Government colleagues. I want to bring closure in respect of this matter. This is one of a myriad of legacy issues left behind by previous Governments and by Ministers who presided over the Department over which I now preside. We will deal with those issues seriatim or one by one. I want to find the best way, from the point of view of the women, to proceed. In order to do so, there is a need for interaction with an individual, preferably a judge - we are seeking a judge and we are in discussions with one at present - in the context of identifying how we might proceed. The individual in question will also make recommendations to us in respect of how we might expedite the issue. I do not want there to be any delays and nor do I want anyone who has suffered and who is currently with us to be gone by the time this matter is settled. I want this to be dealt with as quickly as possible.

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