20.11.19 – Seanad – Statements on the need for Public Inquiry into the death of Shane O’Farrell – David Norris
In his speech, the Minister seemed to hide behind the Shatter v. Guerin judgment but he is being unnecessarily coy in his approach. He stated he must act within in the law and that the terms of reference must respect the law. His proposed amendment to the motion stated, "[T]he terms of reference of the scoping exercise must be compliant with the line of jurisprudence established by the Supreme Court in the case of Shatter v. Guerin". In my opinion, the terms are compliant. Does the Minister seriously think Judge Haughton would propose something illegal? He has paid tribute to the judge's long experience and expertise in matters of law, but he suggested that he might propose something illegal.