In closing the Budget Debate in May, Shaw had announced that the hearings would begin on July 1.

However, the hearings are not likely to begin before later this month.

Consultant in the finance ministry, Allan Brooks, said during yesterday's broadcast of radio talk show Perkins Online on Power106 FM, that while the submissions are now being accepted, the actual hearings will not start before July 10.

Preparatory work

"Given the nature of the enquiry, a lot of preparatory work has been taking place," Brooks said. "The commissioners are now in place, affected institutions have been written to and asked to make submissions; individuals have been making submissions in preparation for the sittings which should begin later this month."

Brooks said the enquiry was being conducted independently of the finance ministry.

However, he said the ministry would be making documents and statements available which might assist in the investigations. He said further details on the enquiry would be published in the press.