The Laffoy Commission was established on foot of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse Act 2000 to investigate child abuse in institutions in the State, to enable persons who have suffered abuse to give evidence to committees of the commission, to provide for the preparation and publication of a report by the commission containing the results of its investigation and to make recommendations it considers appropriate for the prevention of child abuse. The term "institution" in the Act is defined as a "school, an industrial school, a reformatory school, an orphanage, a hospital, a children's home and any other place where children are cared for other than as members of their family."
The commission was initially set up on an administrative basis and given a broad term of reference under which it was requested to consider and recommend any changes and powers it considered it needed to carry out its function. The commission produced two reports outlining the terms of reference and powers it felt it would require to carry out its inquiries in an effective manner.
Arising from these reports a broad definition of abuse, which covers sexual and physical abuse, neglect and emotional abuse, was written into section 1 of the Act. The report also pointed out the range of powers that the commission would require and, under the legislation enacted, the commission has the power to compel witnesses to attend hearings, order the production of documents, take evidence on oath or affirmation, appoint inquiry officers to carry out preliminary investigations and conduct and commission research. The commission operates by means of committees, of which there are two, currently operating to facilitate the differing needs of victims. First, there is the confidential committee, which hears in total confidence the testimony of witnesses who do not wish to have their allegations investigated. The purpose of this is to afford victims an opportunity to give an account of their abuse in an atmosphere of compassion and understanding.
The second committee is an investigative one which hears evidence from victims and investigates their case. The committee can follow up on allegations made and can summon witnesses to hear further evidence as well as compelling the production of documentation and data.
In light of the above I do not share the Deputy's view that the parameters of the commission are narrow and I do not have plans to set up a further tribunal of inquiry to deal with matters of abuse.