Written answers

Wednesday, 2 May 2012

Department of Justice, Equality and Defence

Garda Investigations

6:00 pm

Photo of Finian McGrathFinian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 120: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the fraud at the National Educational Welfare Board 2003-2005 was not investigated by the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation; the reason the Finance Manager employed by the Board at that time was approached by a Detective Garda attached to the Bridewell, seeking a statement from them in 2010, five years after the fraud took place; if he will confirm the date on which the detective unit at the Bridewell commenced their investigation into the fraud. [22254/12]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 437 of 21 March, 2012 and 944 and 1036 of 18 April, 2012 in which I informed the Deputy of the general timeline and outcome of the investigation referred to. The Deputy will recall that the Garda investigation, which commenced in 2006, 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. I am further informed that an investigation file was submitted to the Law Officers in January 2011 and that, following a number of further enquiries by that office, directions were issued in November 2011 not to prosecute in the case.

Insofar as the specific and detailed aspects of the Garda investigation to which he refers are concerned, the Deputy will appreciate that I have no role in these matters or in decisions concerning investigative strategies in any individual case and that these are operational matters for An Garda Síochána on which it would not be appropriate for me to seek details to provide by way of answer to Parliamentary Questions. The Deputy will appreciate that there are statutory mechanisms in place where persons have complaints against the behaviour of members of An Garda Síochána.

Photo of Shane RossShane Ross (Dublin South, Independent)
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Question 121: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 596 the action he intends to take to prevent increased instances of identity theft, in view of a case involving the identities of deceased Irish children being used by fraudsters to make illegal insurance claims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22256/12]

Photo of Alan ShatterAlan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I have requested a report from the Garda authorities in relation to the matter referred to by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.

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