Taxpayer to pay Curtin’s costs in Oireachtas probe
The Oireachtas committee investigating the behaviour of Judge Brian Curtin has reportedly agreed to pay any costs that he incurs in the course of the inquiry.
The committee was set up by the Dail and Seanad to investigate the judge's suitability for office following his acquittal on child pornography charges due to a garda blunder.
Reports this morning said it had "reluctantly" agreed that the taxpayer should foot the bill for the judge's costs following lengthy discussions with his barrister last night.
The costs have been estimated at between €500,000 and €1m.
Last night's agreement should pave the way for the judge's computer, which was seized by gardaí in 2002, to be handed over the committee.
It will then be examined by two independent computer experts appointed by each side.
