Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am not aware of any such attempt. Obviously, I understand that in the preparation of the report, aspects of it that will affect parties will be brought to their attention and they will have an opportunity to respond. This is part of ensuring that natural justice is done to everyone in terms of possible outcomes. However, I am not aware of any detail of that. I am aware of the general process and procedure that exists in respect of how reports are finalised, completed and published. The role of my Department in this respect is to facilitate rather than supervise. I am not involved. The tribunal is a creature of the Oireachtas and the sole member will report to the Oireachtas. My role is to try to accommodate requirements as they arise, based on communication from the tribunal to me.

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