Abuse inquiry criticised over costs

THE State spending watchdog has criticised the Child Abuse Inquiry for failing to monitor its costs as its final bill of €136 million looms for taxpayers.

Concern has also been raised that the abuse inquiry engaged barristers for administrative work when less expensive staff could have been used.

The Comptroller & Auditor General (C&AG) has recommended information systems be established for future inquiries to count costs on an ongoing basis.