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Departmental Investigations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2014

Tuesday, 1 July 2014

Ceisteanna (380)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

380. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will meet with the family of Fr. Niall Molloy in advance of the publication of the McGinn report, in view of the serious reservations that have been expressed by the family in relation to the terms of reference which have not been heard. [27880/14]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy will be aware, Mr. Dominic McGinn, Senior Counsel, is at present carrying out an independent examination of the report of the Serious Crime Review Team relating to the Garda investigation into the death of Fr. Niall Molloy.

In accordance with its terms of reference, this independent examination comprises two elements. Firstly, Mr. McGinn is to examine the Review Team's report which, for legal reasons, cannot be put into the public domain in its current form, with a view to preparing a report which can be put into the public domain on any issues of public interest which may arise from the report. Secondly, he is to identify matters, if any, of significant public interest or concern that would warrant examination by a further inquiry and in respect of which such further inquiry would have a reasonable prospect of establishing the truth.

My priority is to allow Mr. McGinn to complete this process so that the maximum amount of information can be put into the public domain at the earliest possible date. At that point I will also of course fully consider the outcome of the examination concerning any further inquiry. I am conscious of the concerns expressed by the relatives of Father Molloy but I think it is important that I would have the benefit of Mr. McGinn's independent assessment before considering this matter further, including with respect to discussing the case with the family. While Mr. McGinn's terms of reference do not stipulate a specific timescale, my understanding is that his work is well advanced and it is anticipated will be completed by the end of the summer.

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