Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The lost at sea report will be debated in the House next week by agreement. On the question of a debate on Northern Ireland, if there is a satisfactory outcome today or tomorrow to the ongoing talks, it would be an opportune time for the House to discuss the situation. We will await the outcome of the deliberations and the Whips can discuss the question of a debate at their meeting this week.

On the issue of Oireachtas involvement in the commission of investigation, the Taoiseach has indicated his availability for any inquiry taking place. The Governor and the international expert, when appointed, will be available to the Oireachtas prior to the scoping study. The scoping report will also be debated by the Oireachtas and the views and perspectives of all Members, Opposition or otherwise, can be brought to the attention of the Minister for Finance. Therefore, in that context there will be involvement of Members of the Oireachtas. With regard to the terms of reference, the Act does not make a clear determination of the terms of reference and that will be a matter for the Minister for Finance. However, he gave an undertaking that he will take into consideration the views of all Members. With regard to whether he will meet Members of the Opposition in this regard, I will put that to him. He has never been found wanting with regard to working with Members of the Opposition or with regard to briefing them on any matter.

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