Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 July 2021
1321. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Justice if she will establish a commission of inquiry with a cross-Border dimension into the exposure and murder of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39092/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy refers to the brutal murder of Mr Denis Donaldson in April 2006 in Glenties, County Donegal.
The Deputy will likely be aware, that a number of inquiries related to the death of Mr. Donaldson have been undertaken both in this jurisdiction and in Northern Ireland.
The Garda Authorities are conducting an ongoing investigation into the killing of Mr. Donaldson and extensive inquiries have been carried out in this regard. I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the investigation remains open and active and that further directions from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are awaited.
I am further informed that the inquest into the death currently stands adjourned in light of the ongoing criminal investigation.
While I appreciate that the adjournment of these proceedings will be a matter of concern for the family of Mr Donaldson, you will appreciate that this is undertaken to ensure that the criminal proceedings are not compromised.
In the circumstances, most notably the ongoing active Garda investigation, I do not believe it would be prudent to consider the establishment of a commission of inquiry.
