The Government may have to go abroad to recruit the judges sought by the Flood tribunal to expedite its inquiries into corruption in the planning system.
The Attorney General, Mr Michael McDowell, was instructed by the Cabinet last week to bring forward proposals on how the request by Mr Justice Flood for two additional judges could be met.
Judge Flood asked for assistance in conducting his inquiries in a letter sent to the Government two weeks ago, but it is understood that serving members of the judiciary may be unwilling, or unable, to take on the responsibilities.
A Government spokesman said that difficulties could arise for Irish judges in terms of a conflict of interests. Some of them, as barristers, would have undertaken work linked with the construction industry, and their former clients might now appear before them at the tribunal. At this stage, representatives of many of the State's major building firms had been called before the Flood tribunal.
It is understood the Government experienced considerable difficulties before securing the services of Mr Justice Flood as sole member of the tribunal three years ago. A Government spokesman said it was possible the Attorney General might have to look outside the State to find the necessary expertise.
Last week Mr Pat Hanratty SC, a tribunal lawyer, said that without increased assistance the tribunal could continue for another three years with key areas of investigation still untouched.