James Breen (Clare, Independent)
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Question 597: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the treatment of an ex-garda who was injured while serving outside the State four years ago (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22365/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I understand the Deputy's question is referring to the length of time it is taking to process the member's application for compensation under the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts 1941 and 1945.

As I stated in my previous reply on this matter, in Parliamentary Question No. 465 on 22 March 2005, in making a decision on an application for compensation under the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts 1941 and 1945, my Department has, in accordance with section 6 (1)(b) of the 1941 Act, regard to all the relevant facts including the reports from the Garda authorities and the Garda chief medical officer, setting out the background to the case and the precise nature of the injuries sustained.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that in this case, the length of time taken to process the application has arisen primarily in relation to consideration of the medical aspects of the case. I am informed that the required medical reports having been submitted on behalf of the applicant, including a report giving the final prognosis on the member's condition, and the reports having been considered by the Garda CMO, that an appointment with the CMO was arranged for 6 April. I am further informed that the Garda authorities forwarded a report in the matter to my Department on 24 June. A decision on the member's application will be made without any undue delay.