‘Grace’ inquiry plan delayed

Plans to set up a state inquiry into alleged sexual abuse at a HSE-supported foster home have been delayed yet again, after the author of an independent report asked for more time to finish his work.

The Irish Examiner understands initial plans for ministers to sign off on the terms of reference for a formal investigation into the Grace case this week have been put on hold because further work is needed on the file.

As previously reported, Disabilities Minister Finian McGrath was due to bring a memo to cabinet tomorrow setting out terms of reference recommended by senior counsel Conor Dignam.