Mr. Jim Fennell:

The advice from our solicitors was that an independent investigation was warranted and that it was necessary to appoint a senior academic from outside the institute of technology sector because of the nature of the allegations being levelled at the institution. That left us looking at one of the seven universities. It was also decided not to approach our colleagues in NUI Galway to ensure it was seen to be independent.

Arthur Cox was requested to recommend an appropriate senior academic. It approached two people but one of them was not available. Arthur Cox came back and recommended Professor Bairbre Redmond, the deputy president and registrar in UCD.