I propose to take Questions Nos. 11, 14, 21 and 41 together.
At the request of the Government, the Garda Commissioner appointed Deputy Commissioner Eugene Crowley to institute an inquiry into the fatal shooting of Aidan McAnespie at Aughnacloy on 21 February, and the circumstances surrounding the fatality.
I have received a report on the findings of the inquiry from the Garda Commissioner together with the report on the post mortem examination carried out by the State Pathologist on the body of Mr. McAnespie. I propose to submit both reports to the Government at the earliest opportunity for consideration and to decide on any action that is necessary. Pending consideration of the reports by the Government, I do not propose to comment in any way on what they contain.
The question of guidance being sought by the Garda authorities in the conduct of the inquiry did not arise. The Government statement establishing the inquiry made it clear that the Deputy Commissioner would take statements and obtain information from all persons able and willing to assist, so no question arose of excluding from the scope of the inquiry any person who, in the judgment of the senior and experienced officer in charge, could be of assistance or provide information.
I would like to conclude by reminding the House that the subject of the investigation is sub judice in a neighbouring jurisdiction and I would ask Deputies to keep in mind that nothing should be said here which might prejudice a fair trial in that jurisdiction.