Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There are two ongoing investigations. There is the investigation by the Garda into all the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate and tragic death of Garda Tony Golden and the shooting of himself by Mr. Mackin. Separately, arising from information made available by a firm of solicitors in February last year, there is a GSOC investigation ongoing. It is only appropriate because this is a sensitive and tragic case for the Golden family that these investigations are now proceeding in parallel, and they should be allowed to proceed in parallel and be brought to a conclusion. The Tánaiste expects to get a report from the Garda Síochána in respect of that at the earliest possible opportunity.

I would appreciate having the opportunity to assess the information that will come from these investigations. They are formal investigations and, in the case of GSOC they are completely independent in the way the position is assessed. The DPP follows through with prosecutions. The Deputy says all the information has been in the hands of the authorities. As he is aware, there is information and allegations about issues, and that is what the investigation is about. Mr. Tony Golden has been taken from us, shot dead in the line of duty and in service to his country. Mr. Mackin then turned the gun on himself, having grievously wounded Ms Phillips. The Garda investigation is ongoing and parallel to that is the GSOC investigation.

The Minister for Justice and Equality will receive that report as soon as possible. Let us wait and see what comes from that and what we can learn from the determination of information that stands up, as against allegations which might not.

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