Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

In that event, I wish to comment on both. On No. 9b, what is the reason for the lengthy delay in the production of the report of the independent commission of inquiry into the murder of Mr. Seamus Ludlow? I understand it has been in Government hands for a year. Is there a valid legal reason that the family involved has not been contacted or given access to any of the information in the report prior to its being laid before the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights? Can the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform give assurances that there are sound legal reasons for this and that there is no intention to keep the family out of the loop?

In regard to 9a, there is a general concern that a serious restructuring seems to be taking place within the Department of Health and Children in terms of accountability to the Dáil. It seems the health promotion function, which was heretofore a key ministerial role, is to be handed over to the HSE where there will be limited accountability to the House. There is genuine concern in the House that we are seeing a demolition——

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