Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)

Garda Tom Flavin was acquitted of all charges against him. It must have been a significant strain on him and his family. It took seven years, which is far too long for a criminal prosecution. Unfortunately, criminal prosecutions can take a lengthy period of time. It is not always the case the delay is a result of the Garda investigation. It goes to the DPP and through the courts, and processes can be delayed. For any person facing a criminal prosecution, there is an entitlement to ensure that is dealt with without delay. We should try to expedite all criminal prosecutions so they can be dealt with more quickly.

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