Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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360. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the inquiry for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21675/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 360 and 402 together.

I am conscious of the distress caused to the Tuohey family as they await the conclusion of the Inquiry relating to the investigations into the death of Shane.

Unfortunately, as the Deputy may be aware, Judge McDonagh informed me that he was unable to continue with the work of the Inquiry due to personal reasons. Consequently, on 11 January 2022, I appointed retired District Court Judge, Michael Coghlan to continue the work of the Inquiry.

I now await the final report in accordance with the terms of reference. While the Inquiry remains independent of me as Minister, I have assured Judge Coghlan that every possible resource will be made available in order that the work of the Inquiry can be concluded in a timely and efficient manner.

Earlier this year, I met with the Tuohey family. The meeting offered the opportunity for me to listen to the family of Shane Tuohey, to express regret at the length of time the Section 42 Inquiry has taken to date and to affirm my commitment to the completion of the Inquiry under the new judge as soon as possible.