Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2017
60. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will commission a public inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied) and the Garda investigation and subsequent prosecution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32970/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware this tragic case was considered under the Independent Review Mechanism (IRM) and the recommendation was that no further action should be taken. Counsel for the IRM pointed out that the appropriate forum for raising matters related to alleged Garda failings was the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) who were already investigating certain matters arising from the tragic death in this case, in part referred by a previous Minister for Justice and Equality.
GSOC is an independent statutory body and the manner in which they conduct their investigation is a matter for them. I am advised, however, that GSOC's report is at final draft stage and currently under review by the GSOC Commission. However, I can inform the Deputy that I am advised that GSOC's investigation is nearing completion and that GSOC have been in contact with the family about the final report of that investigation. We must now await their final determination. It must also be noted that a civil action has been initiated against the State in respect of issues raised in the complaint.
When the then Taoiseach and my predecessor met with the family last November, a commitment was given that when the GSOC investigation is completed and the final report is to hand the question of whether, and if so, what further action can be taken, will be considered. That remains the position.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that in the circumstances it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
