Vote ‘would give politicians judges’ powers’

A SENIOR counsel has raised significant concerns over the “sweeping and draconian powers” which will be afforded to politicians if the public votes yes in next week’s referendum on Oireachtas inquiries.

Oisin Quinn has questioned the impartiality of politicians to whom such powers may soon be given.

Yesterday he briefed a meeting of the Association of Higher Civil and Public Servants on what a yes vote will mean. The association’s members are typically the civil servants who must attend and give evidence at the Oireachtas hearings.