The Taoiseach has ruled out a sworn public inquiry into the Derry O'Rourke sex abuse case in the short term.

Replying on the Order of Business to Mr Brendan Howlin (Labour, Wexford), Mr Ahern said the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation, Dr McDaid, had decided at this stage on an independent inquiry. "Perhaps something could happen in that that might change their minds. At this stage, the Minister thinks what he has decided is adequate," he added.