Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal, Sinn Fein)
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1035. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the motion passed by Donegal County Council in December 2024 calling for an independent statutory judicial public inquiry into the Creeslough explosion that led to the deaths of ten people on 7 October 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30203/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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What occurred in Creeslough was a terrible tragedy and my thoughts are with the victims, their families and loved ones, and the wider community of Creeslough, and all who were affected by what happened over two years ago.

It is important now to allow An Garda Síochána continue with their ongoing investigation in conjunction with the Health and Safety Authority and the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities.

These agencies are best placed to investigate all the understandable concerns of the families and the public; be it public safety, regulatory compliance, and/or any potential criminal responsibility.

These investigations, along with the coroner’s inquest, will hopefully provide answers to the justified questions the families have as to what occurred on the day. It should be noted that where a criminal prosecution is initiated and proceeded with in the Courts, such proceedings will be in public. Similarly, any coroner's inquest will be conducted in public.

I understand that, in late 2024, my predecessor met with the families, and heard the personal stories of the families who have lost loved ones.

I am aware there is a request from the families to the Government for a public inquiry, however as there is a criminal investigation ongoing, I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that I am unable to comment in detail.

The Government must be careful not to do or say anything at this point that would undermine a live criminal investigation, along with the other investigations which are ongoing at this time.

The public also want to know how this happened and they want reassurance that something like this cannot happen again, and I am satisfied that this work is progressing.