asked the Minister for Justice whether the Garda Síochána murder squad has been re-established, either on whole or in part; if not, if there are any plans to re-establish it on a different basis to that which operated prior to its recent disbandment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Garda Investigation Unit.
38.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is not accurate to say that the Investigation Unit (popularly known as the "Murder Squad") attached to the Technical Support Services Section in Garda headquarters was disbanded at any time. A corps of highly experienced major crime investigators has always been retained in this unit but, as part of an internal re-organisation which took place in April 1988, a number of detective gardaí were transferred from the unit to stations in the Dublin Metropolitan Area. The Garda authorities considered that their services could be used more effectively in this way, when they were not required for major crime investigations. The services of these members can still be made available on request when needed for any special investigation.
The Garda authorities are satisfied that these arrangements ensure a more efficent and effective use of personnel resources and have no plans at present to alter them.