CAJ preliminary commentary on Inquiries Bill

The Minister decides on the composition of the panel and the terms of reference of the inquiry without the need for consultation with the chair or any other persons or bodies who might have a legitimate interest in the inquiry. It is obviously not always in the Minister’s interest to ensure a wide remit for an inquiry into alleged wrongdoings on his/her part, or the part of his/her department. Neither is there any provision for consultation with the victims or their next of kin on the terms of reference or composition of the inquiries.