I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 to 15, inclusive, together.
The independent inquiries conducted by the former Chief Justice, Mr. Liam Hamilton, continued through the summer months. I understand that Mr. Hamilton had advanced his examination considerably and had hoped to have his work concluded and his report prepared within a period of months.
Regrettably, on 29 September last, Mr. Hamilton informed me that he would be unable to continue with his inquiries for health reasons. Mr. Hamilton has undergone operative intervention which is being followed by a period of treatment. I thank Mr. Hamilton for taking on the task and for the tremendous commitment, dedication and hard work he brought to his inquiries. I convey to him my good wishes and those of the House for his full and speedy recovery.
The Government has now appointed the former Supreme Court judge, Henry Barron, to succeed Mr. Hamilton. On behalf of the Government, I thank Mr. Barron for agreeing to take on this task and I wish him well in his work.
With regard to the issue of assistance from other jurisdictions, when Mr Hamilton began his inquiries the Government conveyed to the British authorities that this examination had been put in place and our wish and expectation of co-operation from them, together with the likelihood that there would be more specific requests for their co-operation as the examination developed to the point where detailed requests could be formulated. This remains our expectation and Mr. Hamilton has not indicated that any difficulty has arisen in this regard.
