Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 Jun 2000

Vol. 520 No. 3

Written Answers. - Garda Investigations.

Willie Penrose

Question:

18 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the latest position regarding the investigation being carried out by senior Garda personnel into allegations of serious wrongdoing by members of the gardaí in Donegal; when it is expected that the investigations will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15445/00]

Phil Hogan

Question:

60 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects the report of the Assistant Garda Commissioner into the wrongful arrests of members of a family (details supplied) in County Donegal and other allegations of Garda abuses to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15586/00]

Jim Higgins

Question:

107 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a report of an Assistant Garda Commissioner into the wrongful arrests of members of persons (details supplied) in County Donegal has not been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15730/00]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 60 and 107 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that this is a very complex investigation which is being led by an assistant commissioner and refers to a number of separate allegations that may or may not be related.

I have been advised that new issues arose in the course of the inquires being carried out by the investigation team which have delayed completion of the inquiry.

A member of this House has recently drawn attention to an alleged incident said to have taken place in Donegal in November 1996 and this is being examined in the context of the overall investigation.

The House may be aware that the issue of the investigation arose in proceedings in the Donegal District Court on Monday 29 May in the context of criminal proceedings before that court. I understand that the issue relates in particular to the furnishing of documentation to the defence.

I have been assured that every effort is being made to bring the investigation to a speedy conclusion and although the investigation is at an advanced stage it is not possible to say when it will be completed. We all want to see this investigation finalised sooner rather than later but it must be thorough and comprehensive.