Taoiseach slaps down Health Minister over Michael Shine abuse inquiry comments

Convicted sex abuser and former surgeon Michael Shine (93). Pic Collins Courts

Taoiseach Simon Harris has hit back at comments made by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, who said a decision to hold a public inquiry into the sexual abuse carried out by paedophile surgeon Michael Shine was a matter for the Department of Justice.

Mr Donnelly said the establishment of a statutory inquiry was something for the Minister for Justice, the Taoiseach and party leaders, but not for him as it did not relate to health.