The inquiry into the killing of John Carthy in Abbeylara last year was this afternoon adjourned for 30 days.
The committee expressed surprise at the concerns raised by council for the nine members of the ERU, Mr John Rogers SC, following an application presented by him asking for their exemption, claiming that giving evidence would prejudice his clients and their work.
The committee said the decision rested with the Secretary of the Government, who is entitled by legislation to a minimum of 30 days to make a decision.
The inquiry team decided in the absence of evidence from ERU members it would be difficult to see the relevance of other witnesses and therefore decided to adjourn the inquiry until the matter had been resolved.
Adding that the constitutional rights of ERU members could be infringed by their inability to defend themselves directly.
Following the decision, Mr John Rogers SC, asked to be allowed time to address the committee but was told the timing was inappropriate and that the inquiry had been adjourned.