Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The Taoiseach and the Minister for Education and Science have previously expressed their regret at Ms Justice Laffoy's decision to resign from her position as chairperson of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse and have stated their appreciation of the work she carried out over the last number of years. I wish to place on record that I too regret that Ms Justice Laffoy has decided to resign upon the publication of an interim report of the commission which is expected in November. I thank her most sincerely for the very important work she has carried out to date and wish her well for the future.

The House will be aware that the Government has appointed Mr. Seán Ryan, SC, as chairperson designate of the commission. Mr. Ryan has a wealth of experience from his practice of law and has very direct experience of the issues relating to past child abuse having chaired the Compensation Advisory Committee. This committee drew up recommendations for financial awards to abuse victims under the residential institutions redress scheme. Mr. Ryan also acted as counsel to the Ferns inquiry. I am sure he will provide excellent leadership and guidance to the commission in its important work. Mr. Ryan's appointment can also be seen as a concrete sign of this Government's commitment to ensuring the work of the commission is completed, that victims of abuse are helped to find peace and healing in their lives and that those responsible for abuse are held accountable.