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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 26 Nov 1997

Vol. 483 No. 4

Written Answers. - Moriarty Tribunal of Inquiry.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

14 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach the arrangements, if any, in place, to ensure representation of the public interest at the Moriarty Tribunal of Inquiry; the body who will be responsible for instructing counsel for the public interest and for determining the form, content and extent of his or her instructions; whether these instructions will extend to representing the public interest in the submission of matters for the Tribunal's consideration in relation to matters on which it is entitled to make recommendations; whether an arrangement is in place by which those responsible for representing the public interest might, in drawing up their brief, take into account matters raised by public representatives as being of specific importance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20456/97]

The protection of the public interest is a function which is exercised independently of the Government by the Attorney General. I understand that the question of appointment of counsel to represent the public interest at the Moriarty Tribunal is currently under consideration by the Attorney General.

It is envisaged that if counsel for the public interest are to be appointed it will be the office of the Attorney General which will instruct counsel and determine the form, nature and extent of their instructions.
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