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

I stress that it would be highly unusual to ask one party to a legal proceeding to disclose to another party its dealings with its legal representatives. Imagine if such a demand were made of everybody who gave evidence to a commission of investigation. It is important that people have confidence in the commission of investigation structure. More than 97 witnesses were called to the commission of investigation and all of its hearings were held in private. There were no requests for public hearings and all witnesses were heard in private. In this regard, it is worth remembering that Mr. Justice O'Higgins, in his report, states that the confidentiality of the process was respected by everyone. He had unique access and was the only person who heard what everybody had to say on the issues. He did not have partial evidence or receive transcripts without context but heard all the evidence. We should read the report and its recommendations and take them forward.

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