Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 April 2016
383. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of investigations into the bombing in Belturbet in County Cavan in December 1972, which resulted in the death of two innocent teenagers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6127/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI know that the Deputy has a long-standing interest in the appalling bomb attack in Belturbet in 1972 and shares my view that it was an horrific and unjustifiable act in which two innocent young lives were tragically taken.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the bombing and two murders in Belturbet were the subject of a thorough investigation at the time by An Garda Síochána, with expert assistance provided by the Army. The investigation also involved close liaison with the authorities in Northern Ireland in an effort to bring the perpetrators to justice. Although every avenue of inquiry open to the investigation was pursued at that time there was no evidence to bring those responsible for this crime to justice. It remains a source of disappointment that no one has yet been brought to justice for these murders.
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the investigation into these murders is still ongoing, and that the Garda Authorities continue to work closely with the PSNI to seek to progress the investigation. I am further informed that family liaison is maintained on an ongoing basis by the Garda Divisional Officer in Monaghan.
I am assured by the Garda Authorities that any new or additional evidence that emerges from any source will be pursued fully by An Garda Síochána.
