Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

304. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if decisions have been made as to the composition of the group, under Judge Yvonne Murphy, who will look into the mother and baby homes; if experts (details supplied) will be included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38101/14]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

This Government is committed to establishing an effective Commission of Investigation which is capable of addressing these important matters in a sensitive and timely manner. Considerable progress has been achieved to date in this important task, including the publication of the Inter-Departmental Group’s Report and the announcement that Judge Yvonne Murphy will Chair this independent statutory investigation.

Discussions are on-going with the Attorney General and colleagues across Government on the terms of reference with a view to finalising our deliberations in early course. As part of this process Government will also decide upon the final composition of the Commission, which can be made up of one or more members.

Given the breadth and scale of the issues involved it is likely that support from persons with specific expertise in relevant fields will be required to assist or advise the Commission. The appointment of such persons will be a matter for the Commission itself in accordance with the provisions of the Section 8 of the Commission of Investigations Act 2004.