Michael Noonan (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 838: To ask the Minister for Defence if the findings of the inquiry into a person (details supplied) in County Limerick indicate that the naval authorities were guilty of contributory negligence in the person's death; if the apology promised to this person's family by a representative of the naval authorities should now be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18986/05]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I again convey my deepest sympathy to the family on the loss of their son.

As the Deputy may be aware, a Naval Service officer held meetings with the parents at the office of their legal representative to facilitate their access to the report of the military court of inquiry into their son's tragic death. The meetings were intended to assist the family by explaining the court of inquiry process and clarifying any questions or issues they had arising from the report.

Specific requests were made by the family arising from these meetings and the naval officer undertook to have them considered by the relevant authorities. They were then carefully considered taking full account of all relevant facts in the case. In particular, account was taken of the fact that the criminal courts had found an individual guilty of the manslaughter of the person in question. Responsibility rests with this individual as a consequence of his criminal acts. My officials have written to the family explaining why it is regrettably not possible to accede to their requests.