Eoin Ó Broin (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
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362. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a request submitted in 2021 for a commission of investigation (details supplied) was recently refused; if she intends to meet the family at the centre of the request to discuss their experience; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39973/24]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy refers to the brutal murder of Mr Denis Donaldson in April 2006 in Glenties, County Donegal.

A number of inquiries related to the death of Mr. Donaldson have been undertaken both in this jurisdiction and in Northern Ireland.

Garda authorities are conducting an ongoing investigation into the killing of Mr. Donaldson and extensive enquiries have been carried out in this regard. I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the investigation remains open and active and that a Family Liaison Officer is assigned.

I am further informed that the inquest into the death currently stands adjourned to a date later this year in light of the ongoing criminal investigation. I can understand fully that the adjournments of the Coroners’ Inquest are a cause of concern for the family and that is to be regretted. However, these adjournments are in circumstances where the criminal investigation into the death is ongoing in order to ensure that the criminal proceedings are not compromised by the conduct of an inquest.

There have also been developments in Northern Ireland with the publication in 2022 of the Report of the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland into certain matters relating to the handling of the case by the Police Service of Northern Ireland. I would hope that this report served to provide further information to the family.

In the circumstances, and particularly in the light of an active ongoing criminal investigation by An Garda Síochána in this jurisdiction, I do not believe that it would be prudent to consider the establishment of a commission of investigation in this jurisdiction.

As Minister for Justice I will of course continue to ensure that I am kept appraised of developments with regard to the Garda investigation and the inquest.

The Government has always sought to acknowledge and address the needs of all those affected by Troubles-related violence. In my role as Minister for Justice I have met with victims' families and of course remain open to future meetings.

The priority must be to bring those involved in this killing to justice.