Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2014
287. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there is a live Garda investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a person (details supplied) on 5 October 1981 in Drogheda, County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44010/14]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware I have no function in relation to the direction or initiation of criminal investigations, which are a matter for the Garda authorities.
I can however advise the Deputy that a complaint relating to the particular case to which he is referring is amongst those being considered under the mechanism established for the independent review of certain allegations of Garda misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of certain allegations, which have been made to me as Minister for Justice and Equality, or the Taoiseach, or to other public representatives with a view to determining to what extent and in what manner further action may be required in each case.
A panel consisting of two Senior and five Junior Counsel was established for the purpose. The counsel appointed to the panel were all selected on the basis of their experience of the criminal justice system. The review of each complaint will consist of an examination of the papers in the complaint by a counsel from the panel. Following the review of each complaint a recommendation will be made as to whether any further action is desirable and could practicably be taken.
