Significant questions remain over one of the terms of reference of the MacEntee report on the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1974 for legal reasons, the Taoiseach said this evening.
In a statement issued as he published the report of senior counsel Patrick MacEntee, the Taoiseach said it was a "further step on the way to uncovering the truth of what happened on that terrible day in 1974 when so many people lost their lives or were injured".
The Taoiseach said that for "legal reasons" significant questions "remain unanswered" in respect of one of the MacEntee terms of reference. He said that he was taking steps to address this issue and that he hoped that the legal difficulties involved could be overcome.
Mr Ahern noted recent improvements in procedures, but expressed "serious concern" at the shortcomings and omissions in government departments - mainly during the 1970s - identified in the report.
"He has, therefore, initiated a full review of systems and procedures in the relevant Departments and agencies to ensure that similar failures do not occur in future. This review is to be completed within three months," the statement from the Department of the Taoiseach said.
Mr MacEntee was asked to investigate why the Garda investigation into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings was wound down in 1974 and why the Garda did not follow up on a number of 'leads' in the case.
Mr Ahern said the Government will now consider the recommendations of the Oireachtas Committee on the other three reports by Judge Barron into events in the 1970s.
He will also seek agreement with the Opposition parties on a date for a full Dáil debate on the report and on the issue of collusion during the Troubles, he said.