Guerin commission of inquiry
Deputy Wallace seeks clarification on why the Guerin inquiry motion was removed and whether the inquiry has been established. The Taoiseach says the Government approved the terms of reference and intends to proceed, with the matter listed for the following day.
I want to ask the Taoiseach a few questions about the motion regarding the proposed commission of investigation into matters considered by Mr. Seán Guerin SC. Given that a commission of investigation can only be established by order whereby the terms of reference must be discussed in the Dáil, am I to take it that the commission has not been established? Can the Taoiseach confirm - yes or no - whether the removal from the Dáil schedule today of the motion regarding the proposed commission of investigation into matters considered by Guerin was as a result of a court order or a letter from Deputy Shatter's solicitor? Can the Taoiseach confirm whether the Government sought and received legal advice from the Attorney General's office as to whether the matter can be debated in the Dáil?
Comment on this
As far as I understand it, this is a matter that is listed for tomorrow. Clearly, the Government decided to have a commission of inquiry and the Government's intention is to set up the commission of inquiry. The Government has approved the terms of reference for the Guerin inquiry. I understand that the Ceann Comhairle has a view on this in respect of Standing Orders, but the matter is listed for tomorrow and the Government fully intends to set up the inquiry as envisaged.
Comment on this
I understand the Ceann Comhairle has ruled on this matter. The Government agreed to have a commission of inquiry. The Government put forward its terms of reference. The Ceann Comhairle has made an intervention in respect of the Standing Orders. The intention of the Government is to go ahead with the implementation of the Guerin inquiry.
