Michael McDowell claims Fennelly Inquiry is 'no substitute' for Dáil inquiry

Former Tánaiste and Justice Minister Michael McDowell has lashed out at the Fennelly Inquiry into the resignation of the former Garda Commissioner.

Speaking at MacGill Summer School, Mr McDowell said the Commission of Investigation was "no substitute" for a parliamentary inquiry, and said it forces deputies to wait for answers.

A draft Fennelly report has been circulated to interested parties including the Taoiseach Enda Kenny, whose own role in the events leading up to Martin Callinan's departure have been subject to intense speculation.

Michael McDowell said the Fennelly Inquiry into the matter is no substitute for "immediate" parliamentary scrutiny.

He said: "Instead of answering questions straight up in the Dáil and explaining to the TDs what was afoot, we had the Fennelly commission established.

"While I have the highest height of regard and affection for Niall Fennelly, it is no substitute, and his view is no substitute, for immediate accountability to Dáil Eireann.

"No other parliament would abase itself in that way and allow the executive to say 'we won't answer your questions now'."