Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 242: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of children and adults classified as missing; and the position regarding a missing person (details supplied). [13303/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that 230 adults and 311 children were reported missing in the State from 2000 to 2010 who remain untraced. All incidents where people have been reported missing remain under investigation until such time as the person is located. The District Officer (Superintendent) in the area where a person has gone missing takes direct responsibility for all investigations and searches carried out. Local investigation teams are appointed by the District Officer, and all means necessary, including the services of specialist units, are deployed to assist in these investigations, as considered appropriate. The services of Interpol and Europol can also be availed of during such investigations, if necessary.

The Garda Missing Persons Bureau, which is responsible for all data relating to missing persons, provides expert assistance and advice to District Officers in all high risk missing person cases. The Garda authorities are satisfied that adequate resources, including staff and technology, are in place to deal with this issue and investigations are carried out in line with best international practice. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the investigation into the missing person referred to by the Deputy has been ongoing since her disappearance. All information received pertaining to her disappearance is followed up and thoroughly investigated, and the services of Interpol and Europol have been utilised. I am further informed that the family member in question has been kept appraised of developments in the investigation.