Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I refer to two points which arise. What steps does the Minister intend to take to determine a timeframe for this issue? Was it envisaged in 2005, when the terms of reference were agreed, that after five years not one public hearing would have taken place? What timeframe is the Minister considering? Does the Minister agree with me that the slow pace of the tribunal has implications for persons whose character has been impugned, about whom allegations of a very serious nature have been made, about whom accusations and allegations of collusion have been made, and who are unable, because of the slow pace of the tribunal or because no one knows where this tribunal is going, to vindicate their good name? There is a denial of persons' constitutional rights as long as this tribunal continues at such a slow rate or pace and at such a high level of cost to the taxpayer.

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