Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Murphy for raising this important matter. I begin by extending my sincere sympathies and those of the Government to the family of the late George Nkencho on their very sad loss. While events of this nature are thankfully extraordinarily rare in this country, that is of no comfort to his grieving family. My thoughts are with them. The circumstances must be fully investigated.

As the Deputy will be aware, the fatal shooting is the subject of an investigation by GSOC, which is the independent statutory body established with full investigation powers. The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot comment on an ongoing investigation. However, I am advised by GSOC that it has deployed significant resources to this investigation. I am further advised that the investigation is at an advanced stage. I understand that a draft report, pursuant to section 101 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, as amended, has been prepared, and is currently subject to internal and external peer review, as well as legal review. I understand that once the report is completed and a decision reached by the commission, GSOC will issue a statement on the matter. GSOC will also make its findings publicly available as and when any other statutory processes permit it to do so. GSOC has also informed me that it will continue to liaise with the family on developments and will ensure that the family, quite rightly and importantly, are given appropriate notice before any public statement is issued.

See this speech in context