Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I share the Deputy's view that this is a horrendous situation. I commend the whistleblower who brought forward this information in the first instance. I really empathise and sympathise with those who are the victims in this case. However, I do not want to stand up here and announce inquiries like that. I ask the Deputy to bear with me while the Office of the Attorney General provides me with the best advice on the best way possible to proceed. I am happy to sit down with the Deputy and other Deputies from the north-east region and have a rational discussion about ensuring justice is done for the victims.

I know that sometimes words can be twisted, and this is a sensitive matter, as the Deputy is aware. While funding was made available before, I had assumed - wrongly - that the referendum on Oireachtas inquiries to carry out investigations of public importance would be approved. It was not approved by the people, and we cannot, therefore, proceed down that route. I have asked the Attorney General on the best option available, as has the Minister for Health, and if the Deputy bears with me until I receive that advice, I will be happy to report to the House, answer questions about it and meet with Deputies from the north east.

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