Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would be happy to convey the Deputy's concerns directly to the Secretary of State. I will report back to him following my meeting this evening. I wish to assure the House once again that both Governments commit to full co-operation with all bodies involved. The Deputy mentioned the legislation that will be necessary to establish the historical investigations unit. The legislation is currently being drafted. Work on the operational detail of the historical investigations unit is currently being led by the Northern Ireland Department of Justice and the Northern Ireland Executive party leaders in consultation with the Northern Ireland Office, with a view towards the introduction of legislation in Westminster. My officials continue to follow this process closely.

As I mentioned previously to the Deputy, in most legacy cases, An Garda Síochána will continue to be responsible for investigations into deaths related to the Troubles in this jurisdiction where successful prosecutions have not resulted. I note the Deputy's concern about the meeting of the target framework of 2016 for the legislation. I remind him that we are still in the first half of 2015 and that the British Government was involved with electoral issues in recent weeks. Notwithstanding that, I hope the appropriate legislation will be drafted and published at the very earliest opportunity.

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