It has emerged that the Dunne Inquiry examining the retention of organs of deceased children has so far cost the State €15 million.
The Inquiry, which was set up over four years ago, is conducting its business in private and has yet to produce a report. There is no indication when such a report will be finalised.
Minister Michael Martin set up the Dunne Inquiry at the start of the year 2000 following months of controversy over revelations that hospitals had retained the organs of dead children, without their parent's consent.
The Inquiry initially had the support of the Parents for Justice Group, who represent around 2,000 families affected by this controversy.
However, they withdrew their co-operation over two years ago, calling for a full statutory inquiry, which would have the power to compel witnesses to attend.
Today spokesperson Charlotte Yeats said they were shocked by the news that so far this investigation has cost taxpayers €15.3 million. She said Minister Martin should scrap it.
A report on the investigations relating to paediatric hospitals was expected at the end of last year. The Chairman recently told the Department of Health that it has not proved possible to complete this within the time frame laid out. Inquiries into maternity hospitals and maternity units around the country still have to be completed.
