I am informed by the Garda authorities that the investigation in question is active and ongoing.
I am further informed that one specific search has been carried out to date in 1998 but that, at present, no further specific searches are contemplated by the Garda. However, any further information which comes to light will be evaluated and searches will be undertaken where appropriate.
The Garda Síochána have considered fully the family's request to search a specific area. They have informed me, however, that on the basis of the information available to them to date the searching of this area is not warranted at present.
The local investigation team is drawn from the Waterford-Kilkenny division, augmented by members from other divisions, as appropriate, and by members from Garda Headquarters. The Garda authorities inform me that all matters pertaining to this investigation remain under constant review and appropriate action will be taken in the event of developments.
With regard to the setting up a special unit to search for missing persons, the detailed deployment of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner. Present arrangements are that the Garda divisional officer-district officer takes direct responsibility for searches-investigations of persons who are reported missing. Special investigation teams are appointed as necessary.
The question of the value of a centralised Garda national missing persons unit is being kept under review.
The matter is one which merits being kept under review. In this regard, officials of my Department have already had a preliminary meeting with representatives of the national crime faculty from the UK. Later this month, they will be travelling to the UK, with a member of An Garda Síochána, to assess the potential value of a new investigative initiative there, involving analysis of data using sophisticated computer software, as an aid to investigations. If the initiative shows sufficient promise, I will consider its adoption in this country.
