Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 5 Feb 1992

Vol. 415 No. 4

Written Answers. - Garda Investigation.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

130 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice if he will outline, regarding the Garda investigation into the death of a person (details supplied) in the presence of off-duty gardaí, (a) whether he is concerned that no witness could be found to identify the persons who grappled with the deceased and removed him from the public house, the scene of his death, (b) if he will arrange to have these matters further investigated, (c) whether the off-duty gardaí at the scene of the death who gave evidence on the matter were from Cabra Garda station and (d) whether the detective inspector who carried out the investigation was also from Cabra Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice (Mr. Burke)

It is not the practice for the Minister for Justice to give detailed information to the House about individual Garda investigations except where the circumstances of an investigation are so exceptional that such a course is deemed to be appropriate. All I propose to say in this case is that I have been informed by the Garda authorities that this case was the subject of an exhaustive Garda investigation. All the people on the premises at the time were interviewed following inquiries at the licensed premises and following press, radio and "Garda Patrol" publicity seeking assistance. A very detailed file on the matter was subsequently submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions who directed that there should be no prosecution. The Director of Public Prosecutions is, of course, under statute independent in the performance of his functions and I have no role in regard thereto.

I am further assured by the Garda authorities that if any new evidence comes to light, it will be fully investigated and referred for direction, if appropriate, to the Director of Public Prosecutions. If the Deputy has any particular information to impart to the Garda authorities in regard to this tragic incident he will be facilitated in every way.