asked the Minister for Justice if he will now arrange, as a matter of urgent public importance, to have established a tribunal for inquiring into the facts and circumstances surrounding the shooting of the late Chief Superintendent Gantly, Garda Síochána; to report on the nature and adequacy of the regulations governing the training in, and the use of, firearms in the course of their duties by members of the Garda Síochána; and to make such recommendations in relation to the foregoing as they consider necessary or desirable in the public interest.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shooting of Chief Superintendent.
Having regard to the verdict of the inquest in this case, and the fact that the Attorney-General decided that there was no evidence to warrant the institution of criminal proceedings against any person, I do not consider that there is any necessity to appoint a special tribunal to inquire into the circumstances of the death.
I intend to review the regulations relating to the training in and use of firearms by members of the Garda Síochána; but I do not think that anything would be gained by appointing a public tribunal to consider this matter.
Is the Minister aware that on that date shots were fired in another place by members of this force and that these shots might have killed a citizen?
I am not so aware, but, as I have said, I intend to have the existing regulations, which have been in force for a considerable time, modified so as to prevent any such occurrence. Members of the force have been authorised to fire shots in the air in certain circumstances. I do not think that is desirable or necessary.
Will the Minister make these regulations available for the House?
I should have to consider that.