Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 173: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has considered to possibility of introducing an all-Ireland helpline for missing persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39955/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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In relation to the specific matter raised by the Deputy, there are no current plans to proceed along the lines proposed. As I have stated in the past, the Government is committed to developing North/South co-operation across a full spectrum of areas and we will continue to promote closer cooperation between the two jurisdictions wherever it will prove beneficial to the people of this island.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are high levels of cooperation between UK and Irish police forces in relation to the investigation of missing persons in both jurisdictions. Media outlets, print, radio and television are used to highlight cases involving missing persons, as appropriate. All cases of persons reported missing in suspicious circumstances are subject to ongoing review and investigation. The services of other external agencies such as Interpol and Europol are also available to assist in the investigation.

The missing children website, www.missingkids.ie is a joint initiative between the Garda Síochána and the International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children. This website enables the Garda Síochána to circulate instantaneously and internationally written details and high quality photographs of children reported missing to other police forces.