Seán Ryan (Dublin North, Labour)
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Question 16: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform about the delay in establishing an inquiry into the circumstances in which Dean Lyons confessed to a murder while in Garda custody in 1996; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29772/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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On 27 June, I appointed Mr. Shane Murphy SC to conduct an independent review and undertake a thorough examination of the Garda Síochána papers relating to the making by Mr. Dean Lyons of false inculpatory statements in the course of the Garda investigation into the murders of Mary Callinan and Sylvia Shiels on 6-7 March 1997.

Mr. Shane Murphy carried out his task in a timely manner and submitted his report to me towards the end of the summer. While his investigation was very thorough, he has identified certain issues which he considers can only be resolved by establishing a commission of investigation under the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004. I have considered the matter and am exploring with my colleague, the Minister for Finance, the option of establishing such a commission of investigation, including what the appropriate terms of reference would be.

The Deputy will be aware that the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 sets out the procedures which must be followed before a commission of investigation can be established. The approval of the Minister for Finance, the Government and a resolution passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas is required.