Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

374. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she or her officials have been asked to meet persons (details supplied) to discuss the reason they were not made aware of video footage and other evidence in relation to those persons' relative that is apparently stored in Portlaoise Garda station; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26141/15]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

375. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a witness statement in Clara Garda station in County Offaly, on the disappearance of a person (details supplied), was hidden from the person's family for over 13 years; if it has been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26142/15]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 and 375 together.

I have no role in the investigation, prosecution or trial of alleged offences. This is a long standing principle of our system of justice. The role of An Garda Síochána is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the DPP. As the Deputy is aware I cannot interfere with decisions of the DPP.

The case is amongst those being considered under 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, or other public representatives with a view to determining to what extent and in what manner further action may be required in each case. A panel consisting of two Senior and five Junior Counsel, all selected on the basis of their experience of the criminal justice system, was established for the purpose.

I have already indicated that I have decided to appoint a former judicial figure to advise on the preparation of notification letters to those whose cases were referred to the Panel in relation to the recommendations made by counsel. Retired High Court Judge Mr Justice Roderick Murphy has agreed to undertake this task.

Following the review of the complaint by counsel in this particular case a recommendation will be made to my Department and the outcome will be notified to the person concerned as soon as possible.