The Taoiseach has denied suggestions by the Opposition of a sinister motive in the timing of an amendment to the Tribunals of Inquiry Act.
The amendment would allow tribunals to be shut down.
Responding to criticism from Fine Gael Senator Eugene Regan about the new tribunal legislation, Bertie Ahern said Mr Regan was ill-informed on a number of issues.
Mr Ahern said work on the new bill was held back because of the General Election and the aim is to make tribunals more efficient and effective.
