Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 94: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) who died in Garda custody; and the reason the case has taken so long. [13176/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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A Detective Superintendent from outside the relevant Garda Division was appointed immediately after the incident to carry out a detailed investigation into all the circumstances surrounding the person in question's arrest, detention and removal to hospital. The Garda authorities submitted a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions on the matter and furnished a copy to me also. The Director issued instructions that no prosecution should ensue.

An inquest into this tragic death is ongoing at present. As a Coroner's Inquest is an independent inquisitorial process, I am not in a position to comment on the length of time the case is taking. As I stated previously, when the inquest has been completed and a verdict returned I will consider the matter further. A Civil Action has been initiated by the family and this is currently being dealt with by my Department.