asked the Minister for Justice if he will state, with regard to the reference by him to the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána for investigation of a complaint from a person (name supplied), the nature of the investigation carried out; in particular, what categories of persons were interviewed in the course of the investigation; and the outcome thereof.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Investigation of Complaint.
32.
It would not be in the public interest to give details of the investigations carried out by the Garda in connection with alleged offences.
The complaint made by the individual in question is still under investigation and if there appears to be any ground for thinking that it discloses a possible offence, the directions of the law officers will be sought. I understand that the complainant has not so far provided the Garda with material evidence to support his allegations.
The Minister will remember that he informed me in this House recently that he was referring to the Commissioner some evidence of apparent contradiction between the facts which had been proved and statements made in court. Is the Minister aware that the people concerned who have given evidence in court have not yet been questioned? They have not yet been asked to explain the apparent discrepancy in the evidence.
My information is that the Garda are investigating the matter. So far the evidence disclosed is of a rather flimsy nature and does not reveal a real basis for the complaint. However, the matter is still being looked into.
Will the Minister ensure that the people concerned are queried about the matter and that it is not done behind somebody's desk?
I am sure they will be.