It is clear from the correspondence between Ms Justice Laffoy and the Government that the potential cost of the commission was of concern to the Government. This is in spite of the fact that the commission was established to bring justice to a large number of people who were the victims of horrendous abuse in institutions throughout the country. However, the Government felt able, without any qualms, to enter into a deal with the religious congregations which may cost the taxpayer hundreds of millions of euro.