Barry Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her response, in which she stated that she had initiated an independent inquiry and hired consultants to conduct it on her behalf, but I will repeat my question. When the Minister assumed office he stated that there was no need for such an inquiry and that an internal inquiry would be carried out by his Department. It now appears that, in light of the result of the internal inquiry, the Minister of State believes it is necessary to hold an independent inquiry. This seems to confirm that the previous Minister was right many years ago to initiate an inquiry that the Minister of State now feels is necessary. Have we lost much time because of the difference in opinion between her and the Minister? Will she confirm whether this caused the delay? If not, will she publish the internal inquiry carried out by the Department, as it might enlighten us?

See this speech in context