Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 November 2004
387 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the Garda involvement to date in the investigation of the stolen B urine sample and the doping of a horse (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28684/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Garda authorities that a complaint was made to the Garda about a break-in into a premises in this jurisdiction and that matter is now the subject of an investigation. It would not be helpful for me to make any further comment on Garda involvement in the investigation of the matter specifically referred to by the Deputy.
I have no role in the investigation or prosecution of cases. This is a long standing principle of our system of justice. The role of the Garda is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The question of whether or not a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The DPP, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and statute law. In the circumstances it would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment further on this case.
