Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

That is the point but the question has been put and I must answer it as best I can, in the knowledge that the Government did not set up the tribunal. The tribunal is answerable to the House and if the House wishes to express anything about five years, it is a matter for the House if Members have a problem with it.

I understand from my officials, who have been in discussion with the tribunal team and the judge, that Mr. Justice Smithwick is very conscious of the costs and the time required. However, this is a painstaking operation involving co-operation with authorities across the Border and, possibly, across the water. Knowing Mr. Justice Smithwick, I have no doubt that he is operating in as expeditious a manner as possible and he must bear in mind the sentiments expressed by the Deputy.

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