Stalker-Samson inquiry
The Taoiseach said the Government had repeatedly raised the inquiry at the Anglo-Irish Conference and was assured Chief Constable Kelly’s investigations were proceeding as quickly as possible, potentially leading to disciplinary proceedings. Barry stressed its importance to confidence in Northern Ireland’s security forces and justice system under Article 7; no completion date was available, and the Government would continue pressing for an outcome.
asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, at the recent meeting of the Anglo-Irish Conference, he raised the investigations being conducted by the Chief Constable, Sir Charles Kelly, as a result of the Stalker-Samson inquiry; and the response which his co-chairman made.
Comment on this
The Government have raised this matter at all meetings of the Conference. The Government understand that Mr. Charles Kelly is continuing his investigations with a view to the possible institution of disciplinary proceedings against certain members of the RUC and have been assured that his investigations are proceeding as quickly as possible.
Comment on this
Does the Taoiseach accept that this investigation comes under Article 7 of the Anglo-Irish Agreement which talks about confidence in the security forces and in the administration of justice and, therefore, is extremely important in so far as the Nationalists in Northern Ireland are concerned and indeed in so far as their confidence in and the progress to be made under the Anglo-Irish Agreement is concerned?
Comment on this
On a number of occasions this House has made very clear its views and concern about this matter. I can only repeat to the Deputy that the present position is that we are assured that the investigations are proceeding as quickly as possible and we will continue to press for their conclusion.