Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 November 2021
470. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Justice the number of members of An Garda Síochána that have been allocated to the investigation into the deaths of 802 children and the Mother and Babies Home in Tuam, County Galway. [56064/21]
View answer471. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Justice the approximate cost of the Garda investigation into the deaths of 802 children and the Mother and Babies Home in Tuam, County Galway. [56065/21]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 470 and 471 together.
As the Deputy will be aware the Garda Commissioner is responsible under the law for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including investigative matters. As Minister I play no role in these independent functions.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Garda personnel may be assigned to several investigations in response to operational requirements and it is not possible to provide costs or resources associated with specific investigations.
I understand that on 29 April 2021, An Garda Síochána launched an appeal to anyone who wishes to report a crime relating to a pregnancy or abuse incurred during their residence at a Mother and Baby Home, to contact them. An Garda Síochána invited anyone who was the victim of a criminal act arising out of the Mother and Baby Homes, or who has information likely to assist an investigation into a criminal act committed at a Mother and Baby Home, to come forward and report this by emailing MotherandBabyHomes@garda.ie or by phoning the Garda Child Sexual Abuse Reporting line or reporting at a local Garda station.
