Seanad debates

Wednesday, 8 October 2003

Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse: Statements (Resumed).

 

The Government was wrong not to immediately circulate the letter. I would have had no difficulty with the Government receiving the letter, circulating it to all Members and stating it would reply in two, three or four months. That we learned about this from the Sunday newspapers shows a lack of respect for Parliament which established the commission. Ownership of the issue should rest with the Houses of the Oireachtas. The problem arises from the fact that tribunals and internal inquiries are seen ultimately as being in the ownership of the Government. We have to take control in that regard as we go forward and try to develop a better structure. Ms Justice Laffoy and the Government handled the matter badly. I do not make that point in defence of the Government but to state that members of the Judiciary appointed to particular positions have a responsibility to all Members of both Houses as well as to Government. Otherwise, this type of dumbing down of Parliament which constantly takes place through all Governments will continue. That is something of which we must be aware.

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