Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I reiterate the Government's support for what was agreed at Weston Park. Since the publication of the Inquiries Act, Judge Cory indicated he was not satisfied the proposed inquiry under the new legislation would be in accordance with the recommendation he gave on this and other inquiries, including the Breen and Buchanan inquiry into two murders in my constituency. The latter is being carried out under the terms set out by Judge Cory.

I do not agree with Deputy Gregory on the extent to which the Inquiries Act curtails independence but I agree the key difference between the original proposal and the proposed inquiry under the new Act is the extent of ministerial control over production of documents. This restricts the ability of any chairperson to examine this independently and consider what documents should be put in the public domain. Under the new Act the Secretary of State has greater powers than before through the use of a restriction notice which substantially reduces the independence of the chair in deciding on the publication of such documents.

The Government will continue to lobby the British Government at the highest level but it must be accepted the British Parliament, not just the British Government, has passed and enacted legislation. The Council of Europe is examining this issue, the Government will continue to liaise with the family and I will meet Mr. Peter Hain in London tomorrow where I will raise the issue.

See this speech in context