Gerry Adams calls for inquiry into Nama's NI sale; Tánaiste accuses him of 'game of charades'

The Tánaiste Joan Burton has signalled a Commission of Investigation into Nama could take place if the Public Accounts Committee found there were issues.

Joan Burton was responding to demands from Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams and Independent TD Mick Wallace as controversy continues into the sale of the Northern Ireland assets of Nama.

The Sinn Féin President is repeating his demand for a Commission of Investigation into Nama.

Mr Adams says such an inquiry is necessary given the ongoing controversy over the sale of the portfolio.

He said: "When will Minister Noonan come before the Dáil and make a statement on these very serious issues of public interest?

"And, as I have requested, as Pearse Doherty has requested and others have requested, will your government establish a Commission of Investigation into the management and operation of Nama."

Deputy Wallace also named an executive of Nama under Dáil privilege and asked the Tánaiste what role that person played in the sale of 'Project Eagle'.

In the Dáil, Tánaiste Joan Burton accused Mr Adams of a "game of charades" and said the Northern Institutions should be left to examine the sale.

Ms Burton says now is not the time to be calling for a Commission of Investigation.

She said: "I think it has become a political go-to, that literally 'did it rain today in Dublin or yesterday, we need a Commission of Inquiry?'.

"A Commission of Inquiry would follow literally after the Public Accounts Committee has had an opportunity to seriously examine the issues.

"I think reaching for that has simply become and automatic default response."