Enda Kenny
Ceist:9 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Taoiseach the cost accrued to his Department during November in respect of the Moriarty tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46016/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 15 December 2010
Ceisteanna (9)
Freagraí ó Béal (9 píosaí cainte)
The cost accrued to my Department during November 2010 was €390,427.
In respect of the Moriarty tribunal, is there any update on when the Taoiseach expects the report to be issued and does he have an estimated figure of the final cost overall?
I recently gave the updated cost as of end October, which when added to the figure provided today indicates the full cost thus far. On the completion of its work, the Deputy will be aware that the tribunal recently spent two weeks hearing evidence, subsequent to which Mr. Justice Moriarty indicated to the Department that while it is clear that the tribunal is in the final phase of its work, he must consider Mr. Andersen's evidence and a number of other matters before mapping out the final stages of that work.
The tribunal was set up by resolution of both Houses of the Oireachtas and is independent in the performance of its functions.
I realise that. I am sure all Members of the House would be anxious that the Moriarty tribunal complete its work as soon as possible. While I realise we cannot give a direction to the judge to do so, it is hoped that the outstanding matters will be dealt with by Mr. Justice Moriarty and the tribunal as quickly as possible. I assume that if and when Mr. Justice Moriarty publishes the tribunal's findings they will come before this House for discussion.
I concur.
Has clarification been sought from the tribunal on whether public hearings have concluded? We understood that following evidence from the last witness who appeared before the tribunal public hearings would conclude. Has it been confirmed that public hearings are concluded and that it is now only a matter of the tribunal considering the evidence and preparing and bringing forth its report to the House?
As I said, the Chairman is independent in his functions. My assumption is that public hearings have concluded. However, Mr. Justice Moriarty must consider that evidence. Whether witnesses will have to be recalled arising out of that evidence I cannot confirm or deny.
Perhaps the Taoiseach will indicate if the total cost of all the tribunals held during the past number of years is known and, if not, when the final bill of cost will be known.
We are all agreed that tribunals are an expensive way of carrying out investigations. It is not possible, however, to quantify the overall cost of this particular tribunal until it has concluded its work and third party costs are known. The tribunal has always insisted in response to any queries from the Department that any attempt to quantify third party costs at this point could lead to conjecture and inferences being drawn, which could affect the rights of persons affected by the tribunal's inquiries. Unfortunately, until matters are completed, the report made and third party costs adjudicated upon, I cannot give that figure.