Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I fully support the establishment of the commission of investigation into the tragic and unfortunate death of Gary Douch in Mountjoy Prison. I assure the Minister I will refrain from making any comments on the case for the reasons mentioned by him. The Commission of Investigation Act 2004 is the ideal vehicle to allow Gráinne McMorrow to carry out her business quickly and efficiently, building on Mr. Mellett's work. I join with the Minister in complimenting Mr. Mellett on his work. His report was an example of how we can work more effectively in difficult circumstances. He got to the heart of the matter quickly and presented his report to the Tánaiste, who decided that the issues involved were so important that they required an investigation by an experienced senior counsel to make recommendations on the matter within six months. This is the right decision and is the type of effective decision making that should be extended to other areas of investigation, rather than allowing matters to drag on for months and years.

I also join with the Minister in complimenting Mr. Justice Kinlen on his work, which I have mentioned on several occasions. I am glad he has been reappointed to his position.