Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has already pointed out that a number of commissions are operating. This is due to the response of the Government to legitimate public concerns and concerns of Members. The Deputy has picked out three particular cases. However, it would not be right for me to pick out particular cases. In each case, the same approach is being taken, but I cannot anticipate any outcome. It is a serious matter to refer a case to a commission or to establish a commission. I cannot anticipate whether any case or how many cases will be referred as suitable for a commission of investigation.

The Deputy has mentioned three cases and obviously I am familiar with cases where people have serious concerns. For cases like this, it is unprecedented for a Government to set up an independent legal assessment. I will be guided by the outcome of that assessment and will examine the outcome for each of the cases. I will also consider whether any theme emerges from that work that might recommend other actions I may need to take as Minister for Justice and Equality.

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