Garda Complaints Procedures.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 March 2006

Thursday, 9 March 2006

Ceisteanna (179)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

172 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 20 alleging repeated incidence of persecution; if he has investigated the situation with a view to clarification as to the reason this person has been summoned for countless minor offences; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that failure to fully investigate the issues will lead to referral to the EU courts; if his attention has further been drawn to the severe stress caused to the family in question; the action he has taken or proposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9971/06]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have received correspondence from and on behalf of the person referred to in the Deputy's question. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are three complaints on record in respect of this matter. The first complaint was deemed admissible by the Garda Síochána Complaints Board and an investigating officer was appointed. However, the Garda Siochana Complaints Board took no further action as the complainant did not co-operate with the investigation of his complaint.

The second complaint was deemed inadmissible by the Garda Síochána Complaints Board, in accordance with section 4(3)(a)(iii) of the Garda Síochána (Complaints) Act 1986, as the conduct complained of was not specified in the Fourth Schedule to the Act.

The third complaint was addressed to the Garda Commissioner, and a Garda superintendent was appointed to investigate the allegations. However, the complainant failed to co-operate with the investigation and the matter could not be processed. He was informed of this in writing on 27 October 2004. I can inform the Deputy that some time ago I requested a Garda report on the matters raised by the person referred to and I understand that this is at an advanced stage.

Questions Nos. 173 to 175, inclusive, answered with Question No. 17.