Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

335. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she has received complaints about the length of time it is taking the independent review mechanism established to review complaints about the justice system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40246/14]

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

336. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if the independent review mechanism is responding to queries from those whose complaints are being investigated before it writes its full report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40247/14]

Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

337. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality when she expects the independent review mechanism to conclude its investigations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40248/14]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I propose to take Questions Nos. 335 to 337, inclusive, together.

The Deputy is referring to the mechanism established for the independent review of certain allegations of Garda misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of certain allegations, which have been made to me as Minister for Justice and Equality, or the Taoiseach, with a view to determining to what extent and in what manner further action may be required in each case.  This was one of the actions agreed by Government as a response to the Guerin report.

The independent review is now underway, and is currently examining a large range of cases referred to them. While some complainants will understandably wish to see the review completed as soon as possible, it is important that nothing arises which might detract from the integrity of the review mechanism. It is therefore considered inappropriate to place a time constraint upon the working of the panel, although they intend to conclude their work as soon as is reasonably practicable.

While the review does not involve interviews or interaction with complainants or any other form of investigation, counsel may recommend that I seek further information from complainants, or from any other relevant bodies, to assist in coming to an appropriate recommendation in any particular case.