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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 9 Apr 1924

Vol. 6 No. 38

CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - STATEMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS AGAINST DEPUTY.

asked the President if he will appoint a Special Commission of legal persons, qualified in the hearing and investigation of evidence, and empowered by this Dáil to issue subpoenas and to hear evidence on oath, to enquire into the statements and suggestions made against a member of this Dáil, whether in a private document to the Postmaster-General or before the Wireless Broadcasting Committee, such Special Commission to report its findings to this Dáil.

I do not intend to appoint a Special Commission of legal persons as outlined in the question. The only method by which the Dáil could so empower a Commission to issue subpoenas and take evidence on oath would be by Statute, which legislation I cannot promise to introduce yet.

With reference to the case referred to in the Deputy's question, the ordinary Law Courts of the State were and are available to investigate any statements or suggestions that were and are considered to give grounds for complaint.

Is the President aware that for reasons already stated in the Dáil that procedure is not any longer available?

Mr. O'HIGGINS

I am not aware of that.

Arising out of that answer, are not the ordinary legal methods and channels open to the Deputy as a matter of fact?

Certainly.

I would ask the President further whether the suggestion outlined in the Deputy's question does not arise, except the Deputy has failed to take advantage of these proceedings?

I understand that the Deputy had an opportunity of approaching the courts in this country. He has now an opportunity of following his quarry if he so desires.

Does the President mean the courts of another country?

Having failed to take action in these courts, there are other courts now open.

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