Tony Gregory (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the Garda investigation into the injuries sustained in a Garda cell resulting later in the death of a person (details supplied) will be complete; if the cell in which the person sustained the injuries has since been renovated in advance of the conclusion of the investigation; the reason for the renovation at such a critical time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29698/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the person in question was arrested on 2 June 2005 and conveyed to Store Street Garda station where he was detained and placed in a cell. During the afternoon of that date he was found in an unconscious state in the cell and removed to hospital where he died on 16 September 2005.

I am further informed that an officer from outside the division was appointed to investigate the incident. He visited the scene on the day and arranged to have a full technical examination conducted. I understand that during the following week, in the interest of the health and safety of other persons who could be placed in the cell, renovations, including recessing the alarm buzzer panel into the cell wall, were carried out. I have received a preliminary report of the investigation and have requested that the Garda submit to me a full report on the outcome of its investigation, which is nearing completion. When the full report of the investigation is received I will consider it.