Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 11 Feb 1999

Vol. 500 No. 3

Written Answers. - Garda Investigations.

Noel Ahern

Ceist:

105 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 will be examined with other law and legal officers of the State; when the culprits of this brutal assault will be brought to justice; if his attention has been drawn to the frustration and anger that this person feels at the perceived failure of the State and its institutions to get justice for him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3957/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that following a thorough Garda investigation, two suspects were arrested and on the directions of the Director of Public Prosecutions, charged. I understand that after these proceedings had commenced, a third suspect admitted his part in the incident, and the file was returned to the DPP for directions. This had the effect of delaying proceedings. One of the suspects pleaded guilty to common assault at Dublin Circuit Court on 29 June 1998, and is due for sentencing on 22 February. I understand that a second suspect is currently outside the jurisdiction and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. I am further informed that the DPP's direction is awaited in relation to the third suspect.

I fully understand the anger of the person to whom the question refers, who was the victim of a very serious assault. Both the Garda and officials of my Department have been in regular contact with this person, who has been kept informed of all developments.