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

The intention of the terms of reference is not to exclude anybody. People will be able to come forward, and we encourage that. On the time issue, experience tells us it is a problem if the terms of reference are not correctly drawn. Bearing in mind the need for closure for victims and survivors and indeed personnel within the Defence Forces right now, it is an important issue because we know previous inquiries have gone on much longer than anybody in the House anticipated. The most recent example is the Siteserv inquiry. We were meant to do ten modules there; we only ever did one and it took, I think, between five and seven years. A range of inquiries have gone on for such a lengthy duration that those who originally wanted them feel very cheated by the length of time it takes and do not feel their issues have been raised. There is a balance to be struck; that is all. It is about prioritising victims. I was Taoiseach for two and a half years and all I was asked to do in the context of any inquiries was to extend the duration. That is not in the interests of those who want answers, want reform and want things to change for the better.

To reply to Deputy Durkan, there have been other incidents and I said to the Deputy earlier - I am sorry, there have been allegations - but one of the more positive outcomes has been this direct referral to An Garda Síochána straight away. These issues must now be dealt with by the civil courts and the Garda from here onwards.

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