Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Deputy English referred to the pandemic review process. I am sure the Taoiseach is concerned about calling it a Covid inquiry but, certainly, it would be beneficial to have some type of Covid review process. The Government is committed to doing so. I agree with Deputy English that there is no intention on the part of any Member of the Oireachtas to turn it into a sort of show trial or try to criticise people for decisions that were made during a very difficult period. It would be beneficial to look at questions such as whether it was the right decision to close schools at the time. That is not an issue anyone should be fearful of a review body considering and reporting on. People do not know whether it was the correct decision but we have had more time now to appraise its outcomes. The Taoiseach said he will bring terms of reference to the Government shortly. When does he expect the review process to commence? What type of process is he considering? Will it be an orthodox judge-led inquiry or is he thinking of something different from what is usually done?