Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I refer to the judgment of the Special Criminal Court as regards the Omagh bombing. One can read today about how the issue of falsified Garda notes has dogged both trials of Colm Murphy in connection with the Omagh bombing. There was no evidence before the courts on which a jury, properly charged, could convict the accused. This is an extraordinary indictment of the Garda Síochána and the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission must investigate the matter. I say this reluctantly because I understand what it is the Garda is up against in trying to deal with these types of atrocities, but the falsification of notes is an extraordinary turn of events and has destroyed the prospect of a conviction in the case. In the public interest, the commission can initiate an inquiry without having received a complaint. If a complaint is necessary, making one would be warranted. This situation is most unfortunate and unsatisfactory. Another investigation into Garda activities must be carried out this week.