Decision on organ retention probe due next week

Finance Minister Brian Cowen has told the Dáil the Government will make a decision next week on how to proceed with an investigation into the retention of children's organs by Irish hospitals.

The Dunne Inquiry set up five years to investigate the matter is due to be wound up at the end of this month without compiling any final report.

The inquiry has cost €20m, but has only been able to draw up a report relating to three paediatric hospitals.

Mr Cowen said this morning the Government's next step would be decided after that report had been presented to the Tánaiste and Health Minister Mary Harney next Thursday.

"The content of the report will inform the Tánaiste's decision on how to proceed beyond that date," he said, adding that the parents of children at the centre of the investigation would be kept informed of all developments.