John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)

Before calling on the Minister for Justice, on behalf of all Members of Dáil Éireann, I wish to acknowledge the presence in the Distinguished Visitors Gallery of Shane O'Farrell's family - his mother, Lucia, his father, Jim, and his sisters Pia, Hannah, Gemma and Aimee. They are very welcome. Some 14 years ago, they lost their beloved son and brother, Shane, who was just 23 years of age. He was a young man entering the prime of his life. Shane was killed by a hit-and-run driver who should have been in jail at the time.

Since Shane's death, the family have relentlessly pursued truth and justice for him. It has not been an easy journey and there have been many setbacks along the way, but they have remained steadfast. I salute their courage, dignity and resilience over the past 14 years. The searing pain of Shane's tragic death can never be erased but it is my sincere hope that today's apology will bring a small measure of solace to them in their grief and loss.

I call the Taoiseach.

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