Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have a few questions myself. Mr. Kingston appeared before us earlier today and I must say that he was a knowledgeable and compelling witness. He is an expert in the area and obviously also has a personal interest, given the effect of the Whiddy Island accident on his family. His knowledge of the issues was absolutely on point. There appears to be a general acceptance that there is a need for an overall change to the MCIB, but the question is how we get there. Mr. Kingston is of the view that the 1998 review is still relevant. He believes that there is a need to structure the new board in a way that is similar to the board in the UK and that there is a need for particular expertise in the investigations unit. His concern is that a review will long-finger the issue and delay the legislation. We will forward Mr. Kingston's comprehensive documentation to the Department.

As part of the pre-legislative scrutiny process, would the Minister consider amending the legislation to take into account some of the substantive elements of the 1998 review, accepting that it must be updated? Following on from that, what is the timeframe envisaged for the review and for bringing forward the legislation? The issue is not just the review but also the legislative measures that are required to make the necessary changes.

It is accepted by the Department, the Minister, Mr. Kingston and Mr. McCarthy that there is a need to reform the MCIB. The only question is how we get there.