24/01/2017

Sir Patrick Coghlin To Chair RHI Public Inquiry

Retired Lord Justice of Appeal, Sir Patrick Coghlin, will chair the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) public inquiry.

Finance Minister Máirtín Ó Muilleoir made the announcement.

Mr Ó Muilleoir: "I am very pleased Sir Patrick has agreed to lead the Inquiry and I know that he will be unflinching in his pursuit of the truth and scrupulous in his analysis of the evidence.

"The independent investigation will have the powers to compel witnesses and evidence and I pledge that as minister I will ensure the inquiry is free of ministerial control or interference. I call on all parties to make a similar pledge in relation to any future Finance Minister.

"There is an urgent need to get to the facts of the RHI Scheme, to identify negligence, incompetence, alleged corruption and abuse, and to hold those responsible to account.

An investigation by Spotlight revealed several errors in the scheme which will cost the public purse around £490million.

The work will get underway on 01 February.

(CD)

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