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Dáil
‹ Questions on Promised Legislation

Grace inquiry terms of reference

Summary

Deputy McDonald asks when the terms of reference and chair for the Grace commission of investigation will come to the Dáil. After a procedural exchange about speaking order, the Tánaiste says the terms of reference will go to Cabinet within weeks and the Business Committee can consider a Dáil debate.

Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

I would have called Deputy Mary Lou McDonald earlier had she indicated. I will allow her in with a short question now.

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I want to ask about the terms of reference for the commission of investigation into the case of Grace, the young woman with intellectual disabilities at the centre of foster home abuse allegations. The report by senior counsel, Conor Dignam, was published on Tuesday. It makes for disturbing reading. When will the terms of reference for the commission be brought to the Dáil? When does the Government intend to appoint the chair of the commission?

A Leas-Cheann Comhairle, the reason I did not indicate was because I understood it was the custom to go to whoever was in the party leaders' slot. That is how your colleague conducts business.

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Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

Just so there is clarity, it is only if a leader or any Deputy indicates.

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I shall know that in future.

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Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

I do not have to teach you.

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That has been the custom and practice in the past.

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Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

I facilitated many of your colleagues.

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I am not disputing that. I am just saying that has been the custom.

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Pat the Cope Gallagher An Leas-Cheann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

Let us agree to disagree.

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I answered this question earlier. I said the Minister had informed me that the terms of reference would be brought to Cabinet over the next couple of weeks in order that a commission of inquiry can be established. I am sure the Business Committee will discuss whether that issue will be debated in the Dáil.

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