Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 November 2024
293. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice if, given the recent statement by the Garda Commissioner that a public inquiry into the Creeslough tragedy could occur at the same time as the criminal investigation, if she will reconsider her position and support a public inquiry into what happened; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45626/24]
View answerMy thoughts are with the victims, their families and loved ones, and the wider community of Creeslough that were affected by the terrible tragedy that happened two years ago.
I had the privilege of meeting families last week along with Minister Eamon Ryan and Minister Charlie McConalogue, where I heard the personal stories of the families who have lost loved ones, and others affected by the Creeslough tragedy.
Naturally, the families want answers and information about what caused the deaths of their loved ones. The public also want to know how something like this could have happened and along with the families they want reassurance that something like this will not be allowed to happen again.
As there is an ongoing criminal investigation, I cannot comment on any specifics. I am however aware that there is multi-agency engagement and that the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) are supporting An Garda Síochána in their criminal investigation. These bodies are responsible for investigating the understandable concerns of the families and the public; be it public safety, regulatory compliance, or any potential criminal responsibility.
As I said at the meeting with the families, while the Government does not rule out a public inquiry it is important that the Garda investigation, the HSA investigation and the CRU investigation complete their work.
