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

I thank Mr. Purcell for his presentation. Several issues arise from it and from his correspondence with the committee. As he is aware, the committee wrote to the Government at the time requesting that, among other things, the circumstances leading to the retirement of the former Garda Commissioner be referred to the Fennelly commission. The committee reserved its right to revisit these issues any time. We recognise that under the terms of reference we cannot follow what is happening in a court or tribunal.

However, this is neither a court nor a tribunal but a commission of investigation, which is different. It is not mentioned in the terms of reference. Even though there were numerous opportunities to change standing orders over the years, that did not occur. I maintain that we are perfectly within our remit to raise questions with respect to that issue, even though the commission is inquiring. The reason we are concerned is that it is a matter which in our view could be cleared up very quickly and easily and which should be. This is a forum where it could happen and where Mr. Purcell could inform the committee very clearly and in plain English what exactly happened on that night. I invite him to do so now.