Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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346. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the statutory inquiry in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7619/20]

Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The Inquiry referred to by the Deputy is ongoing.

In November 2019, I granted an extension of time until June 2020 for the Inquiry. I am satisfied this was appropriate in order to ensure that sufficient time is available to allow a proper consideration of all relevant matters.

I am informed by the Judge conducting the inquiry that progress has been made since this date but that, in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, he is not currently in a position to meet with a number of witnesses although he is open to the possibility of conducting remote hearings, if the logistical arrangements can be made to do so.

In light of these circumstances, the Judge has requested a further extension within which to complete this work. My officials and I are currently considering this request.

Once I have received the final report, the question of whether any further action is warranted will be considered.