Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 2

Written Answers. - Departmental Investigations.

John McGuinness

Question:

224 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the status of an investigation into the affairs of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; the reason for the investigation; the intentions of his Department following a visit to this person's house recently; if documents and other property taken during this visit will be returned; if a full explanation has been given to the person regarding the purpose of the visit and the intentions of his Department; if a legal case is being pressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23834/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

The investigation into the person named is still continuing and involves members of An Garda Síochána and my Department's special investigation unit. The search of this person's premises arose as a result of an investigation into suspected illegal cattle trading and manipulation of bovine identification on the part of a number of individuals throughout the country. The reasons for the search of this person's premises were outlined on the search warrant that was produced on the day of the search. I understand that some documents that were seized have been returned and any documents and other evidence that have been retained are currently being examined and may be used by my Department and the Garda in the further course of their investigation and possible subsequent prosecutions.