Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Lieutenant Colonel King. During the course of his presentation, I was recalling that it has been less than two years since he was last with us, in 2021. On that occasion, we were seeing the completion of the commission's work. While his presentation pointed to some of the realities, I felt there was a sense of optimism. Unfortunately, I do not get that sense today. Lieutenant Colonel King's presentation was one of the starkest, bleakest and most direct presentations this committee has received for a number of years. I have to assume it is indicative of a level of frustration and dissatisfaction among members of his organisation and the wider Óglaigh na hÉireann or Defence Forces.

Our role as a committee is to hold Government to account and to scrutinise the activities, actions and proposals of Ministers and Departments. In this regard, I see us as having an important role in monitoring the implementation programme for the recommendations, and I believe we have been doing that. However, perhaps we need to intensify our engagement. I again thank Lieutenant Colonel King for his presentation and for being so direct regarding the issues raised. We are an all-party group and we try to reach consensus on issues. I have to say we do not often disagree, which is important in terms of the work we do.

I will open the floor to members. Deputy Carthy has indicated he needs to leave. If it okay with him, I will call Senator Craughwell, who would like to commence, and we can then monitor matters.