Child Abuse.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 April 2004

Tuesday, 27 April 2004

Questions (636)

Phil Hogan

Question:

695 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda investigation of the South Eastern Health Board in 1994 regarding the abuse of children in a residential centre at Cappaquin, County Waterford, was brought to a satisfactory conclusion; if the Garda received adequate co-operation from the South Eastern Health Board and the religious community that was responsible for the children’s centre at the time in which the abuse is alleged to have taken place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11279/04]

Written answers

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a comprehensive Garda investigation was conducted into this matter and a completed file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. I am further informed that full co-operation was received by the Garda authorities from the South Eastern Health Board and the Mercy Order during the investigation.

I understand that the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that there be no prosecution in this case. As the Deputy will appreciate the question of whether or not a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The director, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and/or statute law. In the circumstances it would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment further on the case.