Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

With the introduction of the new Tribunals of Inquiry Bill and the Commissions of Investigation Act, which we have passed, there is an acknowledgement in the House that we need to deal with matters of urgent public importance in ways alternative to what has been the case under the Tribunals of Inquiry (Evidence) Act 1921.

I am aware that Deputy Lowry has close involvement with and knowledge of these matters and that they have gone on for a very long time. I make the case for the Government, in that we wish to see these matters brought to a conclusion as quickly as possible in the interests of everybody. In future, this House needs to consider carefully the question of the use of the 1921 Act, as we have brought forward more modern enactments that can more speedily deal with issues that the Oireachtas may need to have investigated from time to time because they are matters of urgent public importance. In matters of urgent public importance, a length of time is taken because of a range of issues, including challenges that have been made. People are entitled to vindicate their rights in court in respect of any issue that arises based on their legal advice or their own opinion as to how matters should be dealt with.

I make these general points and say that we await finalisation of all of these matters as soon as possible.

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