(MENAFN- Kora) Chairman of the commission, Dick Marty, is keen to learn more about the sport's past problems to understand the issues and allegations previously raised within cycling.
The panel was set up by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) in January to begin the investigations and Marty wants to speak to as many people involved in cycling as possible
"The primary purpose of our investigation is not to punish doping offenders but to learn from the past so we can help ensure a better future for cycling," Marty said on Tuesday
"We will treat all witnesses fairly and so I urge anyone in the cycling community with information that can help our investigation to come forward
"We have much work to do over the coming year and I hope, with the cooperation of the cycling family, the sport has a unique opportunity to learn lessons and regain trust.
Newly-elected UCI president Brian Cookson hailed the start of the commission's work as an important day in cycling
"Today marks an important step in understanding the past and restoring the credibility of our sport," he said
"The Cycling Independent Reform Commission will not only help us learn from the past, but will also play an important role in shaping our future processes and practices
"I committed to this process before I was elected in September 2013 and I'm pleased to see the CIRC fully operational only a few months later
"It is essential that the Commission is left to get on with its investigation on a completely independent basis and I have ensured that all the structures are in place to allow this to happen.
Disgraced former Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong had previously insisted he would testify with "100 per cent transparency" at any future doping inquiry, but it is unclear whether he will approach the new commission
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