Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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402. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will consider opening a public inquiry into the circumstances of the fire at the Bundoran Central Hotel in 1980. [36036/15]

Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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403. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she has reviewed allegations of Garda Síochána malpractice in the course of the investigation of the fire at the Bundoran Central Hotel in 1980; and, if she has, if she will make available the outcome of that review. [36037/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 402 and 403 together.

The particular case to which the Deputy refers 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 was established for the purpose, all 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, 216 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. While it would not be appropriate to publish individual 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 have also asked counsel, in addition to making recommendations in individual cases, to produce a general overview of the issue and trends identified through this process. I believe that this may lead to recommendation for changes across a number of areas, which if implemented will address many of the general and thematic concerns raised by those persons who cases were examined by Counsel. I understand that this report is currently being finalised. Once I have had an opportunity to consider it, I intend to publish it.