A Dáil inquiry into events at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda and the actions of former consultant Michael Shine could be set up.
Minister for Health Dr James Reilly told the Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children today that he has agreed to such a move, if the planned referendum to allow the Dail conduct fact-finding inquiries is passed.
The minister said the issue was about the abuse of patients and he believed that patients had suffered as a result of not being able to air matters in public.
He said an inquiry could take place if Dáil committees have the right to compel witnesses to attend restored.
A review of events at the Drogheda hospital between 1964 to 1995 and allegations of sexual abuse of patients was conducted by retired High Court judge, TC Smyth for the previous health minister, Mary Harney.
The judge recommended that his report not be published, a view supported by the Attorney General, as it could prejudice legal cases.
