Last week, I wrote to the Taoiseach to seek international co-operation for an inquiry into the recent release of a witness statement as part of the Jeffrey Epstein files, in which a young girl was trafficked through Ireland for "politicians and notable men" for the purposes of sex. We heard from Garda Headquarters yesterday that no investigation or inquiry is under way regarding this claim. This witness statement is not the only concerning document released in those files relating to Ireland. Within them is an email from one David Wassong to Ghislaine Maxwell which asks if she will send him "the names and numbers of people to play with in Ireland". Our State has a dark history when it comes to the abuse of children. We have seen a history of those in power, be it politicians, the clergy or police, that investigations can be shelved and victims and injustices ignored. We need to be proactive here at the very least. We need to see some form of action from the Irish State to fully explore what is in those statements and emails alone, and indeed, if there is anything further.

I note and appreciate the Deputy's work on this and his engagement with the Taoiseach. Indeed, I read his comments on the issue. We are all absolutely appalled, sickened and disgusted at the depraved - and that word does not fully capture it - conduct we are seeing in some of the Epstein files. Like the Deputy, all of us are seeing that many files are being put out with different bits of information at different times.

Of course, all law authorities, enforcement agencies and police forces are going to have to play any role that is appropriate or important in relation to answers, truth and justice. My understanding is that there has not been specific information in relation to the Garda and the like. However, on foot of Deputy Smith raising the matter in the Dáil, I will discuss it further with the Taoiseach and the Minister for justice.

I appeal to any person in this country who may have any information at all in relation to this to please go to the Garda and make that information available. It is safe enough to say this much. You clearly had here vulnerable young women in a powerful network of despicable powerful men who abused that and carried out depraved acts.