Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Martin raised an important matter. Yesterday, I referred to the importance of the Smithwick inquiry. It is one of the few inquiries under the aegis and jurisdiction of the State and I want to make it perfectly clear there is no intention whatsoever by the Government of interfering in any way with the Smithwick inquiry and its remit.

This inquiry has been running for several years. As I pointed out yesterday, the original motion states clearly that within ten days of public hearings taking place, an interim report should be produced. What is required from the Government is an outcome to the Smithwick inquiry within a determined period. If it transpires the Smithwick inquiry is not in a position to conclude its work, it can come back to the Government and it will consider that, as has happened with other inquiries and tribunals. What the Minister for Justice and Equality is doing here is bringing a finite horizon to this tribunal, as should apply to any other one.

I make it clear the Smithwick tribunal of inquiry will be allowed to do its work without any interference from the Government, because that is very important. If it finds it is unable to conclude its work within the timescale set out, it has the opportunity to come back to the Government and it will hear its-----

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