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Seanad
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Shane O'Farrell inquiry

Summary

Concern was expressed that, despite unanimous parliamentary motions, the promised inquiry into Shane O'Farrell's death had still not progressed.

David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

On 13 February this year, a motion in my name was put to the House concerning the tragic death of Shane O'Farrell. A similar motion had been passed unanimously by the Dáil. The motion was looking for an inquiry. It also rehearsed the details of the aggressor's criminal record, his drug convictions, the laxity of the police and the unresolved matters that remained for the O'Farrell family. My motion was passed unanimously in this House as well. Nevertheless, the Government went ahead with appointing Judge Gerard Haughton to look into the matter. That was four and a half months ago and we have heard nothing since. I ask the Leader to make inquiries as to the progress of this report because we need to know. The feeling of the family was that the appointment of a judge was not an appropriate move. It was in defiance of both Houses of the Oireachtas and might be seen as a delaying tactic. I would like some reassurance that progress is being made in this matter.

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