John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 123: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the setting up of a dedicated missing persons unit under the aegis of An Garda Síochána having regard to the large number of unresolved missing persons cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27336/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management take direct responsibility for missing person cases, and special investigation teams are appointed as necessary. All missing persons are recorded on the PULSE system. When a person is reported missing, the local Garda Superintendent will appoint an investigation team to include any specialised unit deemed necessary, such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation or the Technical Bureau. Missing Persons Bureau staff have undergone training on search management in line with best international practice in order to provide support to local Garda management.

An Garda Síochána interacts fully and as appropriate with media outlets — print, radio and TV — in highlighting cases involving missing persons. The services of other external agencies such as Interpol and Europol are also available to assist in the investigation. In addition, every Garda District has a specially trained search team that is familiar with the locality. The investigation of missing persons is a dedicated subject on the curriculum at the Garda College, Templemore, and is also a subject covered in in-service training.

The Garda authorities are continuously monitoring international developments in relation to investigations of missing persons in order to ensure that best practice is followed. If their professional judgement is that some change in the existing legislation, protocols or structures would be of assistance in improving investigations, this would be considered. Garda management have assured me that they are satisfied that adequate resources are in place to deal with reported cases of missing persons.

I should mention also that the Programme for Government envisages the Garda Inspectorate assessing the needs in this area.