Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I beg the Ceann Comhairle's indulgence to allow me to wish a merry Christmas, a restful break and a prosperous new year to everyone in the House, including all the staff and anyone who may be watching at home. I thank the Ceann Comhairle for his stewardship, leadership and the extent to which he has maintained order in this House in the past year. I also thank all the Members and the Houses of Oireachtas staff for the phenomenal job they have done in the year gone by. It is great to be back in the Chamber and, whatever happens as a consequence of the Omicron wave in the coming weeks, let us not go back to the convention centre. This is our Parliament and this is where we should stay.

On Women of Honour, I am aware concerns have been expressed about the terms of reference for an independent review into systems, policies and procedures in the Defence Forces and that there have been calls for a commission of inquiry with investigative powers. The Minister, Deputy Coveney, will meet with Women of Honour today to discuss these concerns. I am told there is no issue with legal representatives attending should they wish to do so. The review group will be totally independent and will be given any access it requires to records and personnel, in the Defence Forces and the Department, to undertake its role and fulfil its duties properly.

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