Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recall when this accident happened. Nothing I can say or do will bring back Shane O'Farrell, although I am happy to see his mother here in the Visitors Gallery today. I have read the file Deputy Adams gave me as well as the other extensive files on this case. I am aware that there is a civil action being taken against the State and that GSOC has been carrying out an investigation.

I would like to meet Mrs. O'Farrell and hear her story myself. I will do so from a humanitarian point of view. There are processes that are always followed. Nothing will bring back Shane O'Farrell, who I understand was a brilliant young student.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality recently answered questions tabled by Deputy O'Callaghan on this. She indicated that she had met the family herself, as have many others, and that she would like to have the response of GSOC, which work was well advanced. However, as Deputy Adams points out, it has been going on for quite a while. My understanding is that GSOC wishes to interview a number of other gardaí and that the Minister will be prepared to follow through on whatever are the recommendations of GSOC.

This is a very sensitive and sad situation for the O'Farrell family. I would like to think that the very least we can do is have every possibility examined so that Shane's mother, Mrs. O'Farrell, and his sister can at least know that the situation was examined in the way it should be.

I thank Deputy Adams for giving me the file, which I did read, and for his question. I will make arrangements to meet Mrs. O'Farrell when I have an opportunity.

See this speech in context