Seán Barrett
Question:65 Mr. Barrett asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a request from a group (details supplied) seeking a tribunal of inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1974. [4353/99]
Written Answers. - Dublin and Monaghan Bombings.
I have received a request for the establishment of a tribunal of inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings from a committee of victims and relatives of those killed or injured. The Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1974 which resulted in the deaths of 33 people and injuries to hundreds were the subject of an intensive Garda investigation over a protracted period of time. Unfortunately, despite intensive inquiries, the Garda has not obtained sufficient evidence to warrant a prosecution being taken against any persons for these atrocities.
While one cannot have anything but sympathy for those affected, I am unconvinced that the establishment of a tribunal of inquiry along the lines sought by the committee would be the right course of action to take. It is important not to overlook the fact that the Garda investigation file on these bombings remains open. The objective of any Garda investigation is to secure evidence which would be sufficient to bring before the courts those believed to be responsible. That is not something which can be achieved by a tribunal of inquiry. While evidence has not been obtained to date on which a prosecution could be based, if new information should emerge which might bring the culprits to justice, it will be rigorously pursued by the Garda.
Since my appointment, I have been anxious to do anything I can to address the needs of all those who have suffered as a result of violent action associated with the conflict in Northern Ireland. I obtained Government approval last May for the establishment of the Victims Commission headed by former Tánaiste, Mr. John Wilson, who was asked to identify what further measures need to be taken to acknowledge and address the suffering and concerns of these persons and, in particular, the needs and concerns of victims and the families of victims of violence connected to the Dublin and Monaghan bombings. I understand Mr. Wilson has consulted with the victims and relatives of victims of the Dublin-Monaghan bombings on a number of occasions in the course of his work.