Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

Concerning Deputy Sherlock's first question, it is my intention to implement the recommendations in the Hurley report. The majority of the report concerns the interaction between the family, the Department and the Army. Some improvements had been made since 2001 but Mr. Hurley recommends further changes and these will be implemented. I discussed these with the Chief of Staff as recently as today.

Regarding Mr. Hurley's recommendations for an investigation, it was concluded that the original investigation was incomplete and that there was probably room for a further investigation. He did not state that a Garda investigation or a military court of inquiry was the appropriate method of investigation. A number of options were suggested.

My preference, and that of the family, would be for a Garda investigation. A Garda superintendent is examining files to assess whether a Garda investigation is warranted. I spoke to the Garda Commissioner and I await the recommendations of the superintendent before deciding on the format of the investigation.

I agree the Barrett family has had no closure and it is a matter of continuing trauma. I spoke to Mrs. Barrett today and arranged to meet her following my return from Liberia. At that stage I expect to have the Garda findings.

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