Grace case commission
Deputy Howlin asked when unpublished reports and legislation for a commission of inquiry into the Grace case would be brought forward. The Taoiseach said he would consult the Minister and expected terms of reference within weeks.
It will be ready in a couple of weeks.
Comment on this
The tragedy - indeed the horror story - that is the Grace case in the south east of our country is known to all Deputies and has been raised by several Deputies across the House. When will the unpublished reports within the purview of the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Finian McGrath, be published? When will legislation to establish a commission of inquiry into the case be brought before the House?
Comment on this
I cannot answer the question but I will consult the Minister on it. Deputy Howlin will be aware that, following the raising of the matter by Deputies Deasy and McGuinness, the last Government made a decision to hold a commission of investigation in the House. The Dignam report was commissioned and that recommended that two legal matters be dealt with sequentially. That has been done and the Minister published the report. He has made a commitment to Cabinet to come back with the terms of reference for the commission of investigation as soon as possible and I would expect this to be within weeks. I will advise Deputy Howlin in due course.