Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit. Fianna Fáil fully supports the proposal to set up a statutory commission of investigation into the events surrounding the Grace case. The terms of reference are extensive and detailed. There is no doubt that the recommendations of the Dignam report have largely been taken on board and we welcome that. It is clear from the terms of reference that the decision was made to put the Grace case front and centre in the work of the commission. Fianna Fáil accepts that there is an urgent need to complete the inquiry on Grace first. The amended terms of reference will prevent any misinterpretations, as they state clearly and explicitly that when the investigation into Grace is completed, the commission will then set out the further actions it will take to investigate the other related cases. This was always the intention for the commission of investigation. It must take into consideration all previous reports that were prepared on these matters.

The Minister of State stressed the commission will do its work as quickly and efficiently as possible. However, I believe that the six-month period before an interim report is submitted is quite long. I know that the Minister has secured a significant budget to ensure that no stone is left unturned but six months for an interim report and a year before a final one is ready seem very long. That said, I am sure the Minister of State has more information available to him than do members of this House. If we are to believe all that we are hearing, perhaps it will take that amount of time but it seems quite long to me. How did the Minister of State arrive at that timeframe? If it could be pushed along somewhat, that would be very welcome.

I acknowledge the speedy work of the Minister of State on these terms of reference. We are delighted that the revised terms of reference are before us today. My party colleagues and I will wholeheartedly support the motion before us today.