Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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443. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he is satisfied that the terms of reference of the consideration of the Fr. Niall Molloy case have been published even though no consultation had taken place with those who handed over the evidence of a cover-up. [54150/13]

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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451. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he consulted those who handed in evidence on the Fr. Niall Molloy case in relation to the terms of reference of the proposed inquiry. [54278/13]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 443 and 451 together.

I refer the Deputies to my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos 71, 99, 380 and 381 of 10 December 2013 wherein I informed the House that the Senior Counsel carrying out the proposed examination of the report of the Serious Crime Review Team in this case will be asked to do two things, namely, first, to prepare a report which can be put into the public domain on any issues of public interest which may arise from the report, having regard to the rights of all those involved; and second, taking into account existing mechanisms for the investigation of offences, to identify matters, if any, of significant public concern arising from this examination and in respect of which such further inquiry would have a reasonable prospect of establishing the truth.

I am satisfied that the terms of reference, which were drawn up following discussion with the Attorney General, and which have been shared with the family, will ensure that these two objectives are met and do not require further consultation or discussion. My priority is instead to see this process commence as soon as possible.

As the Deputies are aware, An Garda Síochána met with and kept the family members updated during the course of their examination of the issues raised by family members and others in this case, and the report of that Garda examination forms the basis for the review by the Senior Counsel. I have already indicated to the House that, as soon as a person is appointed to conduct the examination, I will let the family know.