Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Following on from that is the issue of the time it takes to carry out investigations. When a member of the Garda is under investigation, that goes on for a significant period. The figures in that regard have been provided. Mr. Hume is saying many of the cases are now dealt with in two years, but it is still quite a long period. Is GSOC under pressure in the context of the possibility that a person could claim it is taking an unreasonable period, such as two years, to carry out what might be a straightforward investigation? Why do these investigations take so long? When the Garda wishes to bring a prosecution, there are certain procedures and timelines, such as those relating to the District Court and so on. Why are there no timelines for bringing these investigations to a conclusion within an shorter timeframe?