Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:169. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the formal process for investigating deaths-suicides of members of the Defence Forces. [53568/13]
View answerThursday, 12 December 2013
Questions (169)
Written answers
I have been advised by the Military Authorities of the following procedures in relation to the investigation of deaths, including suicides, of members of the Defence Forces.
In the case of a death occurring in Ireland on military property and warranting investigation, the Military Police would have an investigative role. However, as the primacy of jurisdiction in such matters in Ireland rests with An Garda Síochána it is they who would have primary involvement in any such investigation.
In the case of the death of a member of the Defence Forces occurring outside a Defence Forces installation in Ireland and warranting investigation, such investigation will be undertaken by An Garda Síochána.
The Military Police conduct investigations into any death involving a member of the Defence Forces while serving overseas.
Determining the cause of death in all cases, including suicide, is the responsibility solely of the Coroner.
If the relevant military authority deems it necessary a Court of Inquiry may be established after any investigation established by An Garda Síochána, the Military Police or the Coroner, has ceased and reports have been finalised. In general, the purpose of such a Court of Inquiry would be to investigate if Defence Forces procedures and orders were followed and/or if they could be improved.