Vol. 533 No. 2
7 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in relation to the inquiry into the murder of a person (details supplied); if he has satisfied himself that every effort is being made by the relevant authorities to bring those responsible to justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7834/01]
The murder of the person referred to by the Deputy was an evil act perpetrated on an innocent and respected member of the community. I share the deep sense of frustration and disappointment held by the Deputy, the local community and, most pointedly, the family that the perpetrators of this heinous crime have not yet been brought to justice. Like the Deputy and the family, I want to see them brought to justice.
I understand that while seven persons were arrested following the murder, no one was charged in relation to it. The murder inquiry is still ongoing but I understand that there have been no recent developments. I know that the family continues to have concerns, both about the conduct of the investigation and in relation to the future conduct of the inquest. On 20 March, the family lodged an official complaint with the police ombudsman and they await the establishment of an inquest.
As the Deputy will be aware, this case continues to be raised with the British authorities through the mechanism of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Secretariat.
