Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Was the Taoiseach quoted accurately when it was reported that he stated there was merit in the view expressed by his predecessor that the tribunals of inquiry should be scrapped? The former Taoiseach has called for a review of the Tribunals of Inquiry Act. In what I have read of his comments, he called for future tribunals under new legislation to be under the supervision of an Oireachtas committee. Is it the Taoiseach's opinion that there is a proposition for a hybrid? Surely it is either a case of tribunals of inquiry under new legislation and procedures or what could be described as an investigation by an Oireachtas committee. To what was the former Taoiseach referring and does it reflect the Taoiseach's opinion on how these matters should proceed? Will there be further legislation in respect of tribunals of inquiry or will a mechanism be found? I suggest the merit of and seek the Taoiseach's opinion on the usefulness of engaging in a public consultation process as to the means that should be employed for addressing matters of such import as those referred to tribunals.

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