Pat Finucane report debate
Deputy Adams welcomed the X-case announcement and requested a Dáil debate on the de Silva report; the Taoiseach said he had asked the Whip to schedule one.
Cuirim fáilte roimh an ráiteas sin. I welcome the statement and the announcement that the Government will legislate for the X case in the new year. Bearing in mind the conversation we had earlier, it would have been appropriate for the Taoiseach to make that announcement in here. I know it is a difficult issue for people to deal with, not least the women of this State and island.
Will the Taoiseach make time in the new year for the Dáil to debate the de Silva report on the Pat Finucane case? I wrote to the Taoiseach and asked if he would review all correspondence in the Department of the Taoiseach, particularly under the tenure of the late Charles Haughey, regarding information that may have been put into the Department by the late Mr. Paddy McGrory a month before Pat Finucane was killed and immediately afterwards. Specifically, I ask that we have the opportunity to debate in some detail the de Silva report.
Comment on this
Yes, this is an important report. I spoke to British Prime Minister Cameron and Geraldine Finucane last week on the publication of the de Silva report. I have already asked the Whip that at the appropriate time when the Dáil returns in the new year, we should make time available for a discussion on the de Silva report. I have received the Deputy's letter and will give it consideration before replying properly.