Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 May 2000

Vol. 519 No. 2

Written Answers. - Garda Investigations.

John McGuinness

Question:

294 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will instigate an immediate investigation into the attacks being perpetrated on the Killeshin churchyard, Graiguecullen, County Carlow; if he will have arrangements made for this investigation to focus on (i) the damage caused to head stones and a marble cross, (ii) disruption of a service on Holy Thursday caused by the church being stoned and (iii) the personal abuse suffered by church goers on Good Friday; if, following the report, his Department will take steps to restore normal security at the church as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13543/00]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that an investigation is already under way into all of the incidents referred to by the Deputy, with a view to a number of persons being made amenable for acts of vandalism caused to the church and graveyard.

I understand that additional Garda attention is being given to the church following these incidents, and that the Garda is working closely with local community groups to address the problem, which is not believed to have political or sectarian motives.