The Government has tonight published the terms of reference for the inquiry into the claims the offices of the Garda Ombudsman were bugged.

The inquiry will be able to call people to give evidence if they deem that necessary.

Retired High Court Judge John Cooke has been appointed to carry out the review.

Our political correspondent, Paraic Gallagher reports:

In all there are eight terms of reference for the inquiry.

These include establishing a timeline of the events that led the Ombudsman to launch it's probe last year.

The inquiry will examine all reports, transcripts and records and may consider oral or other evidence deemed necessary - in other words call people if necessary.

It will also review and assess any evidence of a security breach or attempted security breach at the Garda Ombudsman offices.

It can also make recommendations re security measures at GSOC or if any legislation surrounding the organisation or issue needs to be addressed.

Retired High Court Judge John Cooke will conduct the Independent Inquiry and report back in eight weeks or as soon as possible thereafter.