Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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440. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality when the independent review mechanism established to consider allegations of Garda Síochána misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of such allegations, will have completed its review; the parts of the review that have been completed; that have yet to be completed; and when is it envisaged they will be completed. [34602/15]

Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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441. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of cases dealt with by the independent review mechanism established to consider allegations of Garda Síochána misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of such allegations; the details of any further action that has been required; the outcome of any further action; when the general overview report will be made available; and the number of the complainants that have been notified of the outcome. [34603/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 440 and 441 together.

A panel consisting of two senior and five junior counsel was established for the purpose of conducting the Review to which the Deputy refers. All were selected on the basis of their experience of the criminal justice system.

The Panel has provided recommendations to me in all 320 cases submitted to them and has therefore largely concluded its work. I am mindful that all complainants are anxious to know the outcome of the review of their case and every effort is being made to conclude the process. In each case a submission will be prepared. Mr Justice Roderick Murphy will review the summary of the conclusion and the letter of notification drafted to ensure that they are a fair and accurate reflection of the recommendation.

The issuing of notification letters to complainants commenced on 29 June. To date, 152 complainants have been notified of the outcome of the review of their cases. Letters will continue to issue to all complainants until the process is completed.

I have previously assured Deputies that where further investigation is recommended by the review then that will occur. Where cases have resulted in recommendations for further action, including referral to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC), requesting a report from the Garda Commissioner in accordance with section 41(2) of the Garda Síochana Act 2005, etc, I have accepted those recommendations.

It is my intention, on the completion of the process, to make a comprehensive statement on all the actions I have decided to take in line with the recommendations of counsel. I understand that the general overview report from senior counsel of the panel is currently being finalised. Once I have had an opportunity to consider it, I intend to publish it.