Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Bill was discussed with the whips and has been on the Order Paper for some time. There was no objection to it being taken next week. The contentions of the Opposition are without foundation.

The idea that bringing forward amending legislation in respect of a tribunal of inquiries Act that dates back to 1924 should in some way represent "potential intimidation" of existing tribunals is nonsense. The tribunals are carrying on independently. In the case of the Mahon tribunal, it has indicated when it wishes to end its public hearings next year. This issue has been on the Order Paper for some time and predates such considerations. I do not see any connection whatsoever between both issues, except as another example of political opportunism by the Opposition.

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