Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 146: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of tribunals that are sitting; the date that each was established; the cost to the Exchequer of legal representation of each tribunal to date; the number of lawyers that are employed by the State on tribunal work; if there is a daily rate paid to these lawyers; the rate of same; if some lawyers are employed on a retainer and not actually participating in the tribunal; if they are paid a daily rate; if so, the rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19466/09]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that, in relation to my Department, the only such body currently sitting is the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse, which was formally established in May 2000, under the terms of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse Act, 2000. Under the terms of this legislation, the Commission is entirely independent in the performance of its functions.

In terms of the cost to the Exchequer of legal representation, the Commission's legal expenses to date is €14,460,760. In relation to my own Department, the cost is €3.4 million.

There are currently 4 members of the legal profession employed by the Commission, only one of whom is paid on a per diem basis. The daily rate payable is €531.

There are currently no lawyers employed on a retainer basis and not actually participating in the Commission.