Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was pleased to have the opportunity to meet with the Stardust Victims Committee and Ms Keegan on several occasions. However, I wish to stress again the independence of the role and function of Judge McCartan. The former judge was the choice of the committee which had been consulted in order to ensure its assistance, advice and guidance was taken on board.

Judge McCartan’s report of the assessment process was accepted by the Government and furnished to the committee immediately afterwards, prior to its publication on 7 November 2017.

I assure Deputy Gino Kenny of my interest in this matter. I met with the committee and had an open discussion on historical outstanding matters. In parallel with last year's independent assessment process, my Department met with the committee and its legal advisers on several occasions. My Department remains committed to engaging constructively with a view towards achieving a positive resolution of the process regarding historical outstanding costs.

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