Security is being stepped up for the Nexus phase of the Oireachtas Banking Inquiry which begins next month.
It has been confirmed that the hearings are due to start on 22 April when the committee will hear from Nama chairman Frank Daly and chief executive Brendan McDonagh.
The increased security at the inquiry support centre includes installation of cameras, a dedicated Oireachtas usher presence, security sweeps by gardaí, full security clearance for all visitors, management of electronic device usage and a robust data management protocol for documentation.
In the Nexus phase, the committee will engage with institutions and individuals who had roles relating to the crisis.
It will focus on banking systems and practices; regulatory and supervisory systems and practices; and crisis management and policy responses.
Committee chairman Ciarán Lynch said: “This phase will include a move to compelling witnesses and statements and the use of evidence.
"Under the witness management protocol, there will be a structured witness engagement with a seven-week lead-in between the notification and the public hearing. The protocol includes timescales, evidence books and technical briefings.
“Given the confidential nature of some of the information being supplied to the inquiry for the Nexus phase hearings, a number of security measures have been put in place at the inquiry support centre," the Labour TD said.
"This high level of security reflects the sensitive material that is required by the committee to carry out its duties,” Mr Lynch added.
