Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 2

Written Answers - Garda Investigations.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

233 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) who was detained for 13 months in Clover Hill Remand Centre for an alleged rape of which they were subsequently found to be innocent; if an appropriate investigation has taken place or is under way; when the results will be available; and the action he proposes to undertake by way of redress to the individual concerned. [7511/03]

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

I have no function in relation to decisions of the courts, nor is it open to me to intervene in or comment in any way on the conduct of a case or the outcome of court proceedings, which are entirely a matter for the presiding judge.

Due to the lapse of time involved in this case, it would not be possible for the person concerned to have a complaint against a member(s) of the Garda Síochána investigated by the Garda Síochána Complaints Board, should that be so desired. However, if the person is dissatisfied with any aspect of the Garda investigation leading up to the court proceedings or the conduct of individual members of the Garda Síochána, a complaint may still be addressed to the Garda Commissioner. In this respect, the person can write directly to the Garda Commissioner at his office in Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8.