Morris Tribunal opens with statement expected to last days

Counsel for the Morris Tribunal, established to investigate allegations of corruption against some members of the Donegal gardai, is beginning his opening statement about now.

The Morris Inquiry, which is expected to last up to two years, is holding this morning's session at Donegal Court House.

The proceedings this week will be dominated by the opening statement read by Peter Charleton SC dealing with the terms of reference of the Tribunal.

Retired High Court President, Justice Frederick Morris, will commence proceedings this morning and is expected to make brief opening remarks.

The family at the centre of this Tribunal, the McBreartys from Raphoe, will not be represented.

They are refusing to take part after their repeated demands that the terms of reference be extended were refused.

However, the McBreartys will be called to give evidence at the Tribunal.

When the opening statement is complete in Donegal, the Tribunal will close public hearings until the New Year.

The remainder of the hearings are expected to place at the Tribunal's south Dublin headquarters in Belfield.