Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I note that the Minister failed to answer both my questions, neither of which is immediately relevant to the Fennelly commission of investigation. According to media reports, the French authorities with an interest in the Bailey case have requested permission to visit Ireland again. I understand the Minister has received correspondence from Mr. Bailey's legal representatives which sets out three grounds on which he should refuse the request. They also ask that the Minister respond by outlining his position on the matter. Is it not outrageous that a damning critique is available which tears apart the Garda investigation and shows no evidence that Mr. Ian Bailey was connected to the tragic murder of Ms du Plantier? I refer to evidence from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and a decision by our highest court, the Supreme Court. Despite this, the Department continues to defend a case and will not give an assurance that the request by the French authorities will be refused.

If this were permitted, it would show contemptible disrespect for our criminal justice system. Will the Minister state categorically that he will not permit the French authorities to come into this jurisdiction, considering all that has emerged about this case and is in the public domain?

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