126. Deputy Daniel Ennis asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if there will be a full independent inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46003/26]

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the Wheelock family for their terrible loss, and the pain Terence's tragic death has caused them.

The circumstances surrounding Mr Terence Wheelock’s death were the subject of an inquiry by the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) and the report of this inquiry was published by GSOC in March 2010. The report concluded that there was no evidence that Terence was assaulted during his arrest or in custody. I understand legal proceedings arising from these matters were settled in 2014.

Both GSOC and the Courts are fully independent in the exercise of their functions. It is not open to me to intervene in or comment on any inquiry that has been carried out by GSOC, or on the outcome of any Court proceedings.

As these matters have been fully considered by GSOC, and have also been the subject of legal proceedings, a further inquiry into Terence's tragic death is not under consideration.