Retired Judge to head renewable heating inquiry

A public inquiry into the Renewable Heating Incentive Scheme will be headed by a Retired Lord Justice of Appeal. 

Sir Patrick Coghlin will probe the controversial scheme which went almost half a billion pounds over budget. 

The senior judge will have the powers to compel witnesses and evidence as he investigates claims of corruption and abuse.

The work will get underway on 1st February and will report as expeditiously as possible.

The Minister said: “I now have in place an independent Inquiry Chair, distinguished retired Lord Justice of Appeal, Sir Patrick Coghlin, who was nominated to chair the Inquiry by the Lord Chief Justice.

“The independent investigation will have the powers to compel witnesses and evidence and I pledge that as minister I will ensure the inquiry is free of ministerial control or interference.

"I call on all parties to make a similar pledge in relation to any future Finance Minister.

 “There is an urgent need to get to the facts of the RHI Scheme, to identify negligence, incompetence, alleged corruption and abuse, and to hold those responsible to account.