Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, together.

In line with the recommendations in the final report of the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights on Mr. Justice Barron's report into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1974, the McEntee commission of investigation was established to examine certain aspects of the investigation in this jurisdiction of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings in 1974, arising from findings made by Mr. Justice Barron.

I previously granted an extension of the timeframe for the completion of the report from 14 November 2005 to 31 January 2006. I also published an interim report from Mr. McEntee and placed a copy in the Oireachtas Library.

Earlier this month, Mr. McEntee wrote to my Department stating that more time was required to complete the inquiry in order to pursue a possible new line of investigation that had recently arisen. He therefore requested a further extension of the timeframe until 28 February 2006. I have granted that extension.

He also provided me with a further interim report, as required by legislation. I have decided to publish that report today and will place a copy in the Oireachtas Library. That report is procedural in nature.

To date, some €925,000 has been expended on the commission of investigation. It is envisaged that the total cost of the work of the commission will be approximately €1.215 million. It should be noted that, notwithstanding the extensions which have been granted to Mr. McEntee, the cost and timeframe of this investigation are both significantly below that likely to apply to a tribunal of inquiry into similar matters. I am grateful to Mr. McEntee and his staff for the expeditious and effective way in which they have conducted their work.

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