Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2022
549. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the total number of persons currently listed missing or otherwise unaccounted for; the extent to which ongoing investigation continues in such cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36247/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAt the outset, I would like to acknowledge the pain and trauma experienced by all families of missing persons. I am deeply conscious of how difficult life is for loved ones who simply don't know what has happened to their relative. My Department is committed to working with all relevant state bodies to help more families find their missing relatives.
As the Deputy will appreciate, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána.
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that as of 1 July 2022, there are currently 824 persons reported as missing and recorded as such on PULSE, which is a ‘live’ database and therefore is operational and subject to change.
A missing person investigation commences when the incident is reported to An Garda Síochána and is constantly reviewed at Superintendent level in the relevant Garda district at specific junctures within the investigation to ensure that all actions appropriate to the investigation are being pursued and that the appropriate resources have been assigned to the investigation.
It should be noted that all missing person investigations remain open until the missing person is located.
