Written answers

Thursday, 22 September 2011

Department of Justice, Equality and Defence

Garda Investigations

4:00 pm

Photo of Michael McGrathMichael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 209: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he is satisfied that no additional resources are required by the Garda to expedite the investigations currently under way in respect of certain matters at Anglo Irish Bank; if he has sought and received such an assurance in recent times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25526/11]

Photo of Michael McGrathMichael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Question 210: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of files that have been forwarded by the Garda to the Director of Public Prosecutions in respect of the Anglo Irish Bank investigations; the number of files still under progress by the gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25528/11]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 209 and 210 together.

I attach the highest priority to the full investigation of white collar crime and bringing the perpetrators of such crime to justice to the greatest extent possible. I have expressed, both before and since my appointment as Minister, my unhappiness with the protracted nature of the investigations. I do not intend this as any criticism of investigators and prosecutors, who face tough challenges as a result of the complexities of the matters being investigated. At the same time, I am concerned to ensure that I do not say anything that could prejudice any possible prosecutions or any court hearing. It is imperative that such investigations are conducted in a thorough, methodical and comprehensive manner, so as to ensure that account is taken of all pertinent matters. If this is not done, there is a risk that any prosecutions that may proceed would be jeopardised.

On becoming Minister, I sought and received assurances that there were sufficient resources available to the investigations. I am informed by the Garda authorities that they remain satisfied that sufficient personnel and technical expertise is available to assist in the various aspects of the ongoing investigation. I can assure the Deputy that this Government will continue to provide sustained support for the investigation in terms of resources, as well as the necessary legislative and administrative supports, and that if those involved in the investigations believe at any stage that additional resources are required that will be responded to.

All members of An Garda Síochána allocated to this investigation have previous experience in the investigation of fraud related offences. The investigation is augmented by experienced investigators from the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. There is close co-operation and ongoing liaison between An Garda Síochána and the OSCE, and ten members of An Garda Síochána are currently on secondment to the OSCE.

I am informed that two comprehensive investigation files were submitted by the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation to the Law Officers in December, 2010. In addition, a supplementary investigation file was submitted in May. The files remain under consideration by the DPP, and his directions are awaited. The investigation by An Garda Síochána and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement is ongoing in respect of both these investigations and of other complaints. I understand that it is intended to submit further files to the DPP in the near future.

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