Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

The establishment of a tribunal of inquiry is generally a unique event and arises where the political system in a sense becomes somewhat dysfunctional, such that there is a loss of confidence in the system. It is a big step to set up a tribunal of inquiry. It cannot really complete its work without the privilege attached to it. We have long tried to ensure that Oireachtas committees work more effectively and deal with matters of public concern and with matters where there is, perhaps, a loss of trust in politics. The extension of absolute privilege to the committees without qualification means that the committees can perform a very important function and could obviate the need for many of the tribunals of inquiry. The privilege proposed for the committees should stand.