I confirm that I received a letter dated 19 January 2001 from the father of the person in question. A reply issued from my Department on 28 February 2001. The letter I received did not specifically refer to an inquiry into the matter but I am aware of requests for an inquiry. My Department's response to the letter in question is in line with the information I have previously given to the House on this matter. For example, my response to Question No. 120 of 3 October 2001.
My Department's response to that letter referred to the fact that I had made inquiries into the circumstances of the case. It also stated that I had been informed by the Garda authorities that on 26 July 1997 the person in question was arrested and detained at the Bridewell Garda station under the provisions of section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. This arrest and detention related to a double murder at Grangegorman, Dublin 7 on 6-7 March 1997.
My Department's response also pointed out the following facts of the case, as outlined to me by the Garda. After the person concerned was arrested and detained he made a full admission to investigating officers of his alleged involvement in a double murder. This admission was recorded on audio videotape as provided for under the Provisions of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984, (Treatment of Persons in Custody in Garda Síochána Stations) Regulations, 1987.
Later that day the person made a further detailed admission of his alleged involvement in the murders. This interview was not audio/video recorded at that person's request. His request for the discontinuance of the electronic recording of the interview was also captured on audio video.
Following consultation between the Garda and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the person was charged with one of the murders at Grangegorman. He appeared before a special sitting of the Dublin District Court and was remanded in custody.