Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 269: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an independent investigation will be carried out into the deaths of two firefighters in Bray County Wicklow in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6754/11]

Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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I extend my deepest sympathies to the families and colleagues of Brian Murray and Mark O'Shaughnessy whose deaths occurred in such tragic circumstances in Bray in 2007.

In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), An Garda Síochána and Wicklow County Council, each announced investigations into the deaths of two firefighters.

I cannot speak in relation to either the HSA or An Garda Síochána's investigation. In relation to the Wicklow County Council investigation, the following brief was given to the independent consultants conducting it on behalf of the Council:—

"carry out an investigation and assessment of the fire incident with specific reference to the building features to: determine, if possible, the factors in the building which influenced the course and severity of the fire, derive a timeline for the incident based on a review of accounts of those in attendance, assessment of the fire scene and post-fire analysis, and prepare a report setting out the results of the assessment and conclusions in regard to the particular circumstances in this building, which contributed to the deaths of the two fire fighters."

My Department will consider any issues arising from information made available in reports on foot of the above investigations, and these may inform the Department's continuing work of supporting and developing fire services. I do not intend to establish a further investigation into this tragic incident.