Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Nov 2002

Vol. 558 No. 2

Written Answers. - Missing Persons.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

212 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the total number of persons currently listed as missing; the extent to which ongoing follow-up exists in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24037/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell):

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of persons reported as missing and the number of persons who were untraced at the end of each year from 1990-2001, the last year for which published figures are available, in circumstances that would give rise to concern for their general safety and well-being are as follows:

Year	Number of persons reported as missing	Number of persons untraced
1990	1,359	10
1991	1,358	11
1992	1,497	7
1993	1,530	9
1994	1,578	12

Year	Number of persons reported as missing	Number of persons untraced
1995	1,658	17
1996	1,848	9
1997	1,877	3
1998	2,015	10
1999	1,800	15
2000	1,806	21
2001	2,123	67

The figure for the current year is not available.

The Garda Síochána does all in its power to locate missing persons. On an international level the Garda liaises with Interpol and non-governmental organisations where there is a worldwide network to trace missing persons. Europol can now assist in missing persons investigations and a representative has been nominated from each EU member state for assistance and liaison in cases of suspected trafficking in human beings.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that each of the cases currently under review by Operation Trace was investigated in depth by the Garda Síochána in the locality of the disappearance and all information and leads relating to these cases are systematically analysed and followed up. Operation Trace has yielded new lines of inquiries which have been pursued in conjunction with the original investigation teams. A unique database has been devised which facilitates cross-referencing of detail and highlighting of similarities among the vast amount of information which has been collated. The Garda also have an Internet website for missing persons cases. The PULSE computer system has been specifically adapted to assist in these investigations. A national computer dental database is currently being developed in co-operation between the Garda and the national dental hospital.

All files on missing persons remain open and under continuous review until the person is located or, in the case of a missing person who is presumed drowned, a verdict to that effect by the coroner. Many searches have taken place and further searches will be based on available information and intelligence. I am also assured that contact is maintained on a regular basis with the families of missing persons.