Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2014
306. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if her attention has been drawn to matters sent to her by a person (details supplied); her views on these matters; the actions she will take on these matters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44265/14]
View answerThe person to whom the Deputy refers is amongst those whose complaints are 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 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 consists 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.
Elements of some of the complaints being considered, including the complaints of the person referred to by the Deputy, relate to issues outside the remit of the independent review mechanism. Once Counsel have forwarded their recommendations on the issues within their remit, any other issues raised will be considered before responding to the complainants.
