As indicated in my reply to Question No. 891 of 12 April 2005, issues were raised with my Department regarding the terms of reference of the inquiry referred to by the Deputy.
I have been advised that the terms of reference of the inquiry were ultra vires. Accordingly, I decided that the best way to proceed was to terminate the original inquiry and to establish a new inquiry with new terms of reference. County Clare Vocational Education Committee was informed of this decision. I am satisfied that the new inquiry’s terms of reference come within the scope of an inquiry under the Vocational Education Act 1930. I understand that the officer conducting the inquiry is taking steps to contact all relevant persons and intends to conclude the inquiry as speedily as possible.