Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)

Freedom of information requests have been submitted since the Minister's assertion that nothing had started which showed that work had started on that. Instead of pursing this the Minister set up internal audits, which had been undertaken even before the former Minister, Mr. Gormley, ever got to the stage of launching independent investigations. It was a very poor start if the Government wanted to ensure nothing was left covered up or even the appearance that something might be covered up.

I urge the Minister to go down the route of an independent investigation. The report published by the Minister of State, Deputy Jan O'Sullivan, indicated it was acceptable to have internal audits in respect of issues that may have arisen. However, when it comes to implementing the 12 reform points, she considers it necessary to bring in a consultant.

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