Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 415: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the investigation that occurred into the death of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; the outcome of that investigation; the reason for the establishment of a new investigation in September 2005; the progress of that investigation; when the investigation is expected to conclude; if he will publish the findings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39260/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the person in question was found dead on the Isle of Doagh, Clonmany, County Donegal on 29 January 2003. The death was fully investigated and found to be consistent with accidental drowning. No evidence was found to suggest the commission of a criminal offence. An inquest file was also prepared for the coroner who found the person's death was due to accidental drowning.

I am further informed that following correspondence from the person's family and a meeting with the Garda regional assistant commissioner, a detective chief superintendent was appointed to review the original investigation. This review is ongoing. I have asked to be informed of the result of the review as soon as it is complete.

Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 416: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the Garda has not given its reasons for making criminal allegations against a journalist (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39297/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Garda Síochána has not to my knowledge placed any allegation in the public domain about this person. I can confirm, however, the Garda Síochána informed me of the factual basis for matters which I have put into the public domain regarding the person in question.