Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)
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94. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if her attention has been drawn to media reports of allegations of sexual assault by members of An Garda Síochána (details supplied) in Limerick; the course of action she intends to take; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2538/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of the media reports referred to by the Deputy. While I would of course be concerned about the serious allegations therein, I have, as the Deputy is aware, no role in relation to the investigation of criminal complaints. That is a matter for either the Garda Síochána or, in relevant cases, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission. The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is the independent body established by law, with extensive powers, to investigate allegations of Garda wrongdoing.

Furthermore, where issues of discipline in An Garda Síochána arise, these are for the Garda Commissioner to deal with in accordance with the appropriate regulations. Again, I have no role in this process.

The Deputy will appreciate that any member of An Garda Síochána who is the subject of any allegation is entitled to due process, as is any person against whom allegations, serious or otherwise, are made. In these circumstances and in order not to prejudice any investigation which may be ongoing it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.