Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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362. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made in relation to a full investigation into the bombing in Belturbet in County Cavan in December 1972, which resulted in the death of two young persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29624/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will share my view that the bombing at Belturbet on 28 December 1972 which took two innocent young lives was a tragic and unjustifiable act of brutality. There are no words to describe the suffering and grief that the families have endured.

The bombing and two murders in Belturbet were the subject of a thorough investigation at the time by An Garda Síochána, with expert assistance provided to the investigation by the Army. The investigation also involved close liaison with the authorities in Northern Ireland in an effort to bring the perpetrators to justice. Although every avenue of inquiry which was open to the investigation was pursued at that time there was no evidence to bring those responsible to justice. It remains a source of disappointment that no one has yet been brought to justice for these murders.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the investigation into these murders remains open and should any new or additional evidence emerge from any source, it will be pursued fully by An Garda Síochána.

The Deputy will also be aware that dealing with the legacy of the troubles on this island is difficult and complex challenge. The Stormont House Agreement provides for a number of initiatives that will establish an overarching framework to deal with the past. The Government is fully committed to playing its part in implementing those measures and I hope they may provide an opportunity for the families of persons killed during the troubles to access further information.