Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot draw a conclusion on that.

Clearly, if we establish an independent Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission under law, give it the authority to interview the gardaí concerned in the type of instances the Deputy describes and give it, under a strong judge, the power to pursue such cases, I expect the Minister would wish to see the conclusion of that work before any decisions would be taken. I understand that the work is at an advanced stage, so hopefully that will shed light on what has occurred and give the Minister an opportunity to form a judgment as to whether further action is necessary or whether the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission can take the necessary action to deal with it. Sadly, nothing that will be done now can bring back the life of a person lost in such tragic circumstances. However, a process is being pursued which, hopefully, will shed light on what are the necessary steps from here on, be it amendment of legislation, disciplinary action, the suggestion made by the Deputy or whatever is appropriate.

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