Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 437: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason he has not responded to previous parliamentary questions regarding an investigation into fraud at the National Educational Welfare Board (details supplied). [14996/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I have now received information from the Garda authorities about the matters referred to by the Deputy. In relation to Parliamentary Question No. 133 regarding a Garda investigation into alleged fraud at the National Education Welfare Board, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the complaint in question was originally received by An Garda Síochána in 2006. An investigation was carried out into the matter referred to and no prosecution resulted. I am further informed that the Garda investigation was a lengthy process due to the complex nature of the investigation which required examination and analysis of a significant volume of information technology data and communications. In particular I am informed that progress in the investigation was hampered because of the unavailability of a person the Gardaí wished to interview.

In relation to Parliamentary Question No. 134 asking if I would confirm that the Gardaí received a complaint regarding possible internet browsing of child pornography at the National Educational Welfare Board by the NEWB in 2005, I am informed by the Garda authorities that an investigation was carried out into the matter referred to and that no prosecution resulted. As the Deputy will appreciate, I have no role in the investigation or prosecution of alleged offences and accordingly it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on either of the cases referred to by the Deputy.