Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot imagine the grief or pain of the O'Farrell family on the loss of their son. I again express my condolences and those of the Government to that family. I know the Deputy is not impugning anyone's integrity but we did ask a retired judge, a person of integrity, to do as the Deputy has suggested, that is, to examine all of the circumstances and to advise me as to whether there are other areas that warrant further investigation or inquiry. I have that report and have sought legal advice on it. The O'Farrell family was rightly provided with a copy of the report and had an opportunity to talk it through with the then Taoiseach, Deputy Micheál Martin, and the then Minister for Justice, Deputy McEntee. My understanding is that, at that meeting, both the content and publication of the report were discussed. I am now reflecting on those matters and on the legal advice I have received. I expect to be in a position to go to the Government on this matter very shortly. As is right and proper, I will advise the O'Farrell family in advance of doing so.

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