David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all Deputies who made contributions to the short debate. It is evident that all Members of the House have a strong desire to ensure that the IBRC commission of investigation conducts an efficient, effective and timely investigation into important matters of public concern. As I mentioned at the outset of the debate, in its first interim report, the commission raised significant issues regarding its investigation and terms of reference.

Today's debate and the points made by Deputies largely reflect the constructive consultations that were engaging the Government and Opposition party leaders to address issues raised by the commission. The consultations that took place covered the commission's terms of reference and the legislative changes required and which are being dealt with in the Commission of Investigation (IBRC) Bill 2016, which has completed its passage through the House.

Following the necessary Dáil and Seanad resolutions, it is the intention of the Government to make the order changing the commission's terms of reference before the summer recess. The making of the Government order, in tandem with the enactment of primary legislation, will enable the IBRC commission of investigation to progress its work in a focused and coherent manner. It would not be appropriate for us today to, in any way, try to prejudice or pre-empt what the findings of the commission will be. These are matters that must be left to the commission alone.

The commission is entirely independent and its sole member, Mr. Justice Brian Cregan, is an eminent member of the Judiciary who is well qualified to carry out the task that has been assigned to him. In accordance with the statutory provisions set out in the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004, Mr. Justice Cregan will send his final report to the Taoiseach as a specified Minister under the Act responsible for certain administrative matters regarding the commission.

The report will be published by the Taoiseach as soon as possible after it is submitted to him, subject, of course, to the advice of the Attorney General and any legal issues arising. I look forward to the IBRC commission completing its work and considering its final report in detail in due course. I again thank all Deputies who contributed to the debate.

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