Vol. 556 No. 4
102 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Defence if the investigation into the death of a person (details supplied) in a shooting incident in East Timor in April 2002 has been concluded; if so, the outcome of the investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20507/02]
Three separate investigations were commenced into the circumstances of the death of Private Ó Flaithearta in a shooting incident in East Timor. The three investigations were conducted by the New Zealand military police, the Irish military police and the Irish Defence Forces court of inquiry. I understand from the military authorities that the New Zealand military police investigation, which arises because the Irish contingent which served in East Timor formed part of a New Zealand battalion, has been completed and is included in the Irish military police investigation report. In relation to the investigations of the Irish Defence Forces, both the Irish military police and the court of inquiry have completed their investigations and the findings of the court are currently with the deputy chief of staff (support), as convening authority, for his consideration.
