Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is over five years ago since I met Mrs. O'Farrell. I acknowledge her sincerity, her sense of determination and, of course, her deep sense of loss and grievance. I am now subject to a vote of the Dáil, which is under consideration. That vote will take place tomorrow. I am also conscious that an independent body, GSOC, is continuing an investigation which could well result in disciplinary proceedings being taken against members of An Garda Síochána. I acknowledge, however, that there have been a number of failures across the criminal justice system. A means to address these failures must be found. I am keen that GSOC would conclude its work as early as possible. I acknowledge that the previous unrelated investigation did take a number of years. I would, however, like to see these remaining investigative procedures and practices take a much shorter period of time. I would like to see it completed soon for a number of reasons, not least of which is the public interest, as the Chair himself stated. I would be happy then, in conjunction with my Government colleagues, to see what further steps would be appropriate, given the circumstances and subject to Dáil votes and any direction I might be given by Dáil Éireann.