Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 143: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on extending the remit of the Commission of Investigation into the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin to cover other dioceses in the country; the position regarding the Garda investigation into matters arising from the Report of the Commission of Investigation into the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13238/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Commission's report on the Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin was published last November. The Commission is at present examining the Diocese of Cloyne, and the Government extended the Commission's term to June to allow this work to be completed.

I am informed by my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs that the Health Service Executive (HSE) is currently in the process of completing its audit of Catholic dioceses to ensure that it, as the statutorily responsible body, is fully aware of all cases of clerical child sex abuse known to the Church. It is expected that the HSE will submit a comprehensive report to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs by the end of April for his consideration.

The Assistant Commissioner appointed by the Garda Commissioner to examine the findings of the Dublin Archdiocese report relating to the handling of complaints and investigations by both Church and State authorities is carrying out such investigations and inquiries as he deems appropriate. When he reports to the Commissioner with his recommendations, the Commissioner will consult with the DPP as to what issues arise in the context of criminal liability. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Commissioner has directed that the investigation be concluded as early as possible.

Consideration of the results of these investigations will include consideration of what further actions require to be taken, including a possible extension of the Commission's remit. Bringing the perpetrators to justice, whenever and wherever the abuse occurred, must be the absolute priority. I repeat my call for any person, including members of the clergy, who has knowledge of such abuse to contact An Garda Síochána. I am sure all members of the House will support that call.