Jim Glennon (Dublin North, Fianna Fail)

I wish to share time with Deputy Finian McGrath.

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for taking this matter on the Adjournment and I thank the Minister of State for his attendance.

Christy McGrath is a 28 year old jockey serving a 16-year sentence for murder at Gartree Prison in Leicestershire. This is the stark fact which bears repetition. In the not too distant past when I used to look on political proceedings from the spectator's point of view, I always had a great regard for and took an interest in the activities of politicians who became involved in issues of miscarriage of justice, particularly in the UK. The names of Annie Maguire, the Guildford Four and the Birmingham Six are etched in the minds of people in Ireland who are politically motivated. I take this opportunity to congratulate all those involved in the eventual delivery of justice for all concerned.

I believe that Christy McGrath is another name to be added to that unfortunate list. I am not saying categorically that there has been a miscarriage of justice, I do not believe anyone can say that without hearing all the evidence in a courtroom setting, but having read the papers and spoken to people interested in the case, I believe there are ample grounds for considerable doubt about the guilty decision made against Christy McGrath. I urge the Minister, everybody involved and everybody with a possible input to ensure that every effort is made at all levels to have a review of the case at the earliest opportunity.

We hear much about the special relationship between this nation and our neighbour but I do not know that we have such a relationship. It is cases like this one that will test whether we have one. I have no doubt that we have a unique relationship. We are unique in terms of our proximity — we are the closest neighbour either has — the entirety of northern part of this island and the fact that we share a language and are on the edge of Europe. Whether that relationship is healthy or special, it is cases like Christy McGrath's that will test its quality.

If a person from another jurisdiction sought preferential treatment in our justice system, we would probably be quite negative about granting it. However, in light of the unique relationship between the islands, particularly the unprecedented level of political interaction that has taken place for some time, we should prove the healthy state of our relationship and expedite the processes involved in dealing with Christy McGrath's case.

It would be remiss of me not only not to sympathise with Christy McGrath but his parents and family but also not to congratulate them on the manner in which they have dealt with the predicament that has been visited upon them. I also pay tribute to the 50 parliamentarians in Westminster and, as of today, a similar number in these Houses who are taking up the cudgels to ensure that justice will eventually be delivered to Christy McGrath at, I hope, the earliest possible opportunity.

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