The government has confirmed plans to launch an independent inquiry into claims of bugging at the Garda Ombudsman Commission.

A retired High Court judge will be appointed to investigate the claims of surveillance at GSOC's headquarters in central Dublin.

The terms of reference for the inquiry have yet to be decided.

TDs were due to vote tomorrow evening on whether to force an independent investigation into the claims.

Meanwhile the Oireachtas justice committee will be asked to recommend changes to the laws establishing GSOC, with a view to increasing its powers.