Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 December 2020
427. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice if the An Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has plans to implement an historical investigations directorate to deal with crimes committed in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. [42864/20]
View answerThe Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission was established as a statutorily independent body, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005. I have no role or function in the processing or management of complaints which are made to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) for investigation.
GSOC's main area of responsibility is to deal with complaints concerning Garda conduct. While the Garda Síochána Act 2005, as amended, provides for time limits for the making of complaints, such time limits may be extended where there is good reason. It is also the case that GSOC may investigate matters in relation to the conduct of Gardaí, when it is in the public interest.
I am advised that there is nothing therefore to prohibit GSOC engaging with legacy cases where appropriate to do so.
The organisation of the work of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is a matter for the Commission.
As the Deputy will be aware, dealing with the legacy of the troubles on this island is a difficult and complex task. The Stormont House Agreement sets out a comprehensive set of measures to deal with legacy issues in a way that can meet the legitimate needs of victims and survivors and support closure and reconciliation for those communities most affected by the Troubles.
The Government remains committed to the implementation of those measures and we will continue to work with the British Government and the parties in Northern Ireland to give effect to them.
