Vol. 520 No. 3
25 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has resolved the matter of Garda clearance for child care staff being employed in the non-statutory sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15564/00]
As I stated in my reply to Parliamentary Questions Numbers 79 and 87 of 2 February 2000 and 296 of 15 February 2000, the Garda Commissioner, in 1999, commenced a comprehensive review of Garda clearance arrangements. He established an internal working group to recommend improved clearance arrangements which would allow the Garda Síochána to respond effectively to the increasing number of requests to expand the system. Arising from the recommendations of the working group, the Garda Commissioner approved the establishment of a new centralised unit to deal with clearance requests. The commissioner also asked an implementation group to report on the practical and resource implications of the new unit.
The implementation group has now submitted its report to the commissioner and I expect to receive his proposals shortly.
26 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his concerns at what appears to be a sequence of unlawful killings associated with organised crime; if he has a particular policy in this regard; if he will outline such policy or policies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15621/00]
The Deputy is well aware that the use of violence and intimidation by criminals is not a new phenomenon and in cases where the victims are also involved in crime there can be major difficulties involved in investigating the crime.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that all killings, regardless of the circumstances involved, are the subject of a rigorous Garda investigation. The identification of the motive, such as an association with organised crime and the evidence available in its support are key elements of the investigation and prosecution processes. Speculation as to the nature of the motive could serve to jeopardise successful investigations and prosecution of serious crimes such as those resulting in unlawful killing.
I have spoken to the Garda Commissioner in relation to recent violent incidents and he has informed me that the necessary resources have been directed towards these areas of criminal activity and that a continued proactive and integrated approach is taken by the gardaí to the investigation of cases where there is a suspicion of the involvement of organised criminals. He has assured me that no effort will be spared to solve these crimes and bring those involved to justice.
