Tony Golden case correspondence
Deputy Adams raised the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill and the unresolved Tony Golden case, pressing for replies to letters sent to the Taoiseach and the then Tánaiste. The Minister for Justice said investigations were ongoing and would be completed without delay, and the Taoiseach promised the Deputy would receive a reply.
I wish to refer to the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill which was passed this morning and, in that context, to the Government's commitment to support victims. Two years ago this month Garda Tony Golden was murdered in Omeath. Siobhán Phillips was grievously wounded and Crevan Mackin took his own life. I wrote to the then Taoiseach, Deputy Enda Kenny, four times. I also spoke to him a number of times about the case. I wrote eight times to the Tánaiste, who was Minister for Justice and Equality at the time. I also spoke to her on many occasions. I gave information to the senior Garda officer who was investigating the case. I also wrote to GSOC. I wrote to the Taoiseach in July about the concerns of the Phillips family about the response of the Government to its demand for a public inquiry, but I received no reply. I wrote again two weeks ago and also received no reply. Seán Phillips, father of Siobhán, will be in the AV room today at 4.30 p.m. to brief Oireachtas Members on the case. In the context of victims and their treatment by the State, I urge Teachtaí to attend. When does the Taoiseach expect the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill to be commenced and when will he answer my letters?
Comment on this
I might be of help to the Deputy in this case. I acknowledge receipt of his correspondence which will be replied to at the earliest opportunity. He is aware that two independent investigations are under way, one in the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission. I assure him there will be no delay in having the investigations completed. I expect to receive an early report on completion of the investigations and we will then see what action is warranted in the circumstances. I acknowledge the seriousness of certain matters surrounding the issue. I again assure the Deputy that there will be no delay in having the matters investigated and reaching a satisfactory conclusion. As far as the victims of crime legislation is concerned, it was under deliberation prior to Leaders' Questions at 12 noon. Amendments made in the Seanad have been approved by the Dáil and the Bill has been returned to the Seanad for a brief debate. With the co-operation of all parties in this House, I expect to have the legislation completed in a matter of days and duly commenced at the earliest opportunity.
Comment on this
What about the failure to answer letters?
Comment on this
I assure Deputy Gerry Adams that the subject matter of his correspondence is being fully addressed.
Comment on this
I am asking about the letters to the Taoiseach.