Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

There was consultation, and the consultation is ongoing. When we had a meeting, on the terms of reference, we presented a basic draft - I emphasise "draft" - terms of reference, which is reasonable as a starting point in terms of discussions with group.

The meeting was quite amicable. The press statement afterwards surprised me given the nature of the discussion we had. I have tremendous respect for the Women of Honour and those who courageously came forward.

With regard to the establishment of a statutory inquiry, we have consulted with all the groups, presented draft terms of reference and asked for feedback, amendments and change so that we can engage further. That is all that has happened. I do not know why that is shocking or why that, in itself, is condemned. It is open to other groups to come back to us and say that they do not like our draft terms of reference and then we will consider all of that, as will, of course, with the Attorney General's office, which, from a legal perspective, will help the drafting in consultation with the groups.

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