asked the Minister for Justice if he will state whether it was in accordance with instructions issued by him that children of a Deputy residing at Lissonfield House, Rathmines, were approached on the afternoon of Sunday, 29th April, by a detective and questioned as to the Deputy's whereabouts and movements, and if not, whether he will state who is responsible for such a happening, and what public purpose it is intended to serve; and whether he will take steps to prevent such interference with such members of the Deputy's family.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inquiries by Detectives.
In reply to the first part of the question, no such instructions were issued and no such approach was made. The other parts of the question do not, therefore, arise.
Is the Minister aware that a party of detectives waited outside my house on that particular Sunday from 6.30 a.m. until 4 o'clock and, having seen me go on a train from Harcourt Street, a detective came to my house and questioned some of my children as to where I was or where I had gone?
My information is that the detectives who were supposed to be an escort for the Deputy had left before this particular guard came on duty. He did not enter on the Deputy's grounds, or anything of the kind. Some of the children went out and asked him why he had not gone with the other detectives and he asked where had they gone. That is the report that was made to me.
There is no statement about a detective entering on the grounds, but is the Minister aware that there is a statement made that the detective came and questioned children who were playing around the gate as to where I had gone and what were my movements?
I have given the Deputy the information I got. This Guard came on duty subsequent to other detectives leaving with you or after you left. This Guard was approached by some of your children who asked him why he had not gone with the other detectives and he asked in reply where had they gone.
Would the Minister say how long those conditions, which make it possible for this kind of unpleasantness to happen, are going to exist?
There is no unpleasantness.
I should like to give notice that I intend to raise this matter on the adjournment.