Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I concur with my colleagues, Senators Bacik and Mullen, in congratulating Ms Loftus on her appointment to the office of Director of Public Prosecutions. As Senator Bacik remarked, it is interesting that three of the highest judicial posts in the land are now held by women, and I congratulate all involved. It is also worth noting that these high positions were achieved without the imposition of gender quotas. We might reflect on that point.

I concur with Senator Coghlan in regard to the lack of progress in the Finucane inquiry. I raised this matter last week and requested that we pursue further the possibility of establishing a truth and reconciliation commission. I have raised this issue in the House on numerous occasions in recent years. A degree of progress is required. The Leader might advise whether further consideration is being given to the matter.

On the broader aspect of Anglo-Irish and Northern Ireland related matters, perhaps the Leader might inquire on my behalf concerning the Forum for Peace and Reconciliation. This might appear to be an unusual request. That forum met from approximately 1994 until 1996 or 1997 and a number of Members of this House would have served on what was a very effective body. It is my understanding that the forum never made a final report and did not officially conclude. I was at the final meeting of the forum when it adjourned on the basis that it might meet again should that be required. I do not believe there is any requirement for the forum to meet again, thank God, but the Leader might inquire as to its current status. Perhaps it could be a vehicle for putting in place a commission for truth and reconciliation, by way of a recommendation from the forum. My understanding is that the forum did not produce a final report. If I recall correctly, it was chaired by the former judge, Ms Catherine McGuinness. I also understand it was not deemed to have adjourned permanently so perhaps there is a possibility it could be used to bring about a truth and reconciliation commission. In recent weeks we have heard claim and counter-claim in regard to what happened and did not happen in Northern Ireland, and who did what. Many questions remain and answers must be given to bereaved relatives. We should try to put in place a vehicle to facilitate these people.