Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2013
55. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has spoken to the British Prime Minister, David Cameron regarding the public inquiry on the Omagh bombing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39058/13]
View answer56. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views regarding the decision of the British Government not to hold a public inquiry into the Omagh bombing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39059/13]
View answer57. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has had discussions with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Theresa Villiers regarding the inquiry into the Omagh bombing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39135/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 55 to 57, inclusive, together.
The Omagh Support and Self-Help Group presented a report which it had compiled to the Irish and British Governments last year setting out matters relating to the atrocity at Omagh which it considered of concern and calling for a public inquiry.
The House will appreciate that my discussions in this matter with the UK Government have been with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Ms Theresa Villiers M.P. Deputies will also be aware that on 12 September the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland announced her decision that the British Government does not propose to hold a public inquiry into certain matters surrounding the Omagh bombing. I understand, as indicated in a statement issued by the Secretary of State, that she does not believe there are sufficient grounds to justify a further review or inquiry above and beyond those that have already taken place or are ongoing.
In so far as this jurisdiction is concerned, I am finalising a detailed consideration of the matters raised by the Omagh Group in as much as they relate to this State and the Garda Síochána. I shall conclude that consideration shortly and I will communicate directly with the Omagh group at that point.
