What is a public inquiry?
Q: What is a public inquiry?
A: A public inquiry is an official review ordered by a government body to hear directly from people and groups regarding a specific occurrence.
Q: In what countries is the idea of a public inquiry used?
A: The idea of a public inquiry is used in many common law countries, such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and Canada, as well as in many other countries.
Q: How does a public inquiry differ from a Royal Commission?
A: A public inquiry accepts evidence, conducts its hearings in public, and deals with a specific occurrence. A Royal Commission, on the other hand, has a broader mandate and can investigate many diverse issues.
Q: Who can make oral or written submissions during a public inquiry?
A: Interested members of the public and organizations may make oral or written submissions, and listen to oral evidence given by other parties.
Q: Does research suggest that public inquiries have a significant impact on changing people's minds?
A: Research on the effects of public inquiries suggests they may not do much to change people's minds. However, they are still a valuable tool to address controversy and hear directly from affected parties.
Q: What is the purpose of a public inquiry?
A: The purpose of a public inquiry is to allow people and groups to voice their opinions directly and address controversy surrounding a specific occurrence.
Q: What is the significance of a public inquiry in promoting democracy?
A: A public inquiry is an expression of democracy as it provides a platform for people and groups to have their voices heard directly regarding local or specific issues.
