Government defends Covid response review as opposition raises concerns over transparency

Taoiseach Simon Harris has defended the government's planned evaluation of its Covid-19 response amid criticism from opposition parties. They express concerns that the review lacks legal powers to ensure transparency and closure for bereaved families. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald called the review "late-in-the-day and weak," emphasizing the need for powers to compel testimony. Labour leader Ivana Bacik described the evaluation as "tokenistic" and seeks clarity on its structure and public hearings. Harris stated the evaluation aims to assess various impacts of the pandemic and mentioned that the independent chair, Professor Anne Scott, could request additional powers if needed.