Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In respect of the Shane O'Farrell case, I am conscious that the Minister has met the O'Farrell family and that her predecessor met the family in April 2014. On foot of the latter meeting, it was agreed that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, GSOC, would carry out an investigation into the matter. While the family welcomed the investigation at the time, two years and five months have passed and there does not seem to be a report from GSOC forthcoming.

The chairperson of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission appeared before the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality last week. While I could not raise specific cases with her, I asked her what was the position in respect of the delay in GSOC investigations. One of the interesting points made at the meeting was that GSOC has very little sanction in terms of trying to compel the Garda to provide answers or information. The O'Farrell family are being told an inquiry is ongoing in GSOC but they have been given no indication as to when it will conclude. It is highly unsatisfactory for the family to be told they are being given an inquiry, only to have the inquiry drag on without any definite end date.

In the second case, I have not had an opportunity to read the report of Mr. Gageby and I do not know whether the allegations made are true and I do not stand over them. However, the respected solicitor acting on behalf of Ms Owen has indicated that this is a matter of ongoing concern and he has raised the matter with me.

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