Garda Investigations.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 May 2006

Tuesday, 9 May 2006

Questions (305, 306)

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

344 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the resources which have been made available to An Garda Síochána for the investigation and pursuit of those responsible for violations of the Geneva Conventions Act 1967 or the Criminal Justice (United Nations Convention on Torture) Act 2000; if there are plans to establish a dedicated unit within An Garda Síochána to police such matters, in particular after the International Criminal Court Bill 2003 passes into law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17401/06]

Written answers

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they are satisfied that adequate resources and strategies are available to investigate complaints made under the Geneva Conventions Act 1962 and the Criminal Justice (United Nations Convention against Torture) Act 2000. Where necessary the services of the national units, under Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services are available to assist members with such investigations. The establishment of a dedicated unit is not considered warranted.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

345 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if An Garda Síochána has carried out investigations under the Geneva Conventions Act 1967, the Criminal Justice (United Nations Convention on Torture) Act 2000 or similar statute; the details of such investigations; if the failure to investigate such matters was the result of resources or expertise issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17402/06]

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

I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the matters raised by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy directly when the information is to hand.