Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 3 Dec 1998

Vol. 497 No. 7

Written Answers - Sexual Offences.

Willie Penrose

Question:

174 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the recent court conviction of a former teacher at a school (details supplied) in County Offaly on charges of indecent assault; the complaints, or information, if any, his Department received in relation to these incidents at any time in the past; if so, when they were received and the action, if any, taken as a result; the communication, if any, between his Department and the Garda in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26267/98]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I understand that this matter is currently before the courts and is therefore sub judice. In the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the matter.

On a general point, I can inform the Deputy that as a matter of general practice at present when my Department is made aware of any alleged crime such matters are referred appropriately to the Garda authorities whose responsibility would be to pursue the matter.