Vol. 508 No. 1
103 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself that the Rosemary Nelson inquiry has secured the necessary confidence to ensure that all potential witnesses and those with relevant information can come forward to assist it; and, if not, his views on the steps to be taken to ensure this happens. [17465/99]
Since the brutal murder of Rosemary Nelson in March this year, the Government has made clear to the British Government that the investigation into her death must be – and be seen to be – thorough, transparent and independent.
The Government, as has been made clear on numerous occasions, are acutely aware of the concerns which have been expressed in the Nationalist community and on the part of human rights organisations, both here and internationally, about the role of the RUC in the investigation into the murder of Rosemary Nelson. The Department of Foreign Affairs maintains ongoing contact on a broad range of issues relating to the investigation with the British authorities within the framework of the Anglo-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. There has been progress. For example, those who wish to contact the investigation may now use a confidential telephone line staffed only by non-RUC officers. In the circumstances, I believe that all potential witnesses, and those with relevant information, should assist the investigation into the murder of Rosemary Nelson, in every appropriate way.
The Government will remain in contact about the case and the conduct of the investigation.
