Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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115. To ask the Taoiseach if he will ensure that the Covid-19 inquiry terms of reference comply with domestic and international human rights law; what steps will be taken to ensure the inquiry is carried out with full transparency to the public; and if the inquiry will be chaired by a Judge or someone of a similar standing with knowledge of the State's investigative obligations. [7723/24]

Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats)
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116. To ask the Taoiseach if the Covid-19 inquiry will give formal status to bereaved families and other interested parties who have suffered as a result of Covid-19; and to detail how such groups will be permitted to participate and contribute to the inquiry. [7724/24]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 116 together.

A comprehensive evaluation of how the country managed COVID-19 will provide an opportunity to learn lessons from our experiences in dealing with a pandemic.

It will include a review of the whole-of-government response to the pandemic and how we might do better and be in a stronger position if another pandemic or other similar type event were to occur. It will include a consideration of the health service response covering hospitals, the community and nursing homes, along with the wider economic and social response.

It is intended to have a public element to hear the lived experiences of all society. The review should be undertaken by those independent of the national response and with relevant expertise.

A consultation with opposition parties and stakeholders has taken place on draft terms of reference. It is intended to bring the terms of reference to Government shortly.