The former CEO of the Rehab Group claims some members of PAC chose to ignore legal advice relating to its powers as the public spending watchdog.

Angela Kerins has taken the Public Accounts Committee to court because she believes it acted outside of its remit during a hearing she attended in 2014.

PAC is considered one of the most powerful Oireachtas Committees because of the key role it plays in ensuring there is accountability and transparency in the way Government agencies allocate, spend and manage their finances.

Today, the courtÂ’s attention was drawn to the Standing Order that set it up.

Mr. John Rogers, on behalf of Angela Kerins, said its examinations are limited to agencies audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General and it has no jurisdiction to quiz private citizens about private affairs.

He claims they did just that during a seven-hour meeting with Angela Kerins in Feb 2014 and he even suggested that some members chose to ignore legal advice relating to the limitations of its powers.

Despite warning Ms. Kerins it would consider compelling her to attend future hearings, the court heard it was told it didnÂ’t have the jurisdiction to do so.

PACÂ’s submissions are due to be opened tomorrow afternoon.