Prosecution expected in relation to IRA informer Denis Donaldson killing: Irish minister
A prosecution is expected in relation to the killing of IRA informer Denis Donaldson, the Irish justice minister has said.
Donaldson was shot dead in Co Donegal in 2006, months after admitting his role as a police and MI5 agent over 20 years.
In 2009, dissident republican group the Real IRA claimed responsibility for his killing, though his daughter Jane has said the family don’t accept the claim.
Today Minister Jim O’Callaghan said directions had been received by Gardai to prosecute a person in relation to the case and that “proceedings are under way”.
“It has now been nearly 20 years since Denis Donaldson was killed,” he said in a statement. “It is a matter of regret that it has not yet been possible to bring those responsible to justice.
“I met today with Mr Donaldson’s daughter Jane, her husband and their solicitor to hear directly their concerns regarding the investigation into Mr Donaldson’s killing.”
He said he had assured them that the investigation “remains active and open”.
The minister added: “Furthermore, I have been informed by Garda authorities that directions have been received to prosecute an individual for offences in this case and proceedings are under way in this regard.
“In those circumstances, I conveyed to the Donaldson family that I did not consider it appropriate to establish a separate commission of inquiry.
“I emphasised the importance of allowing An Garda Siochana to continue its investigation with a view to bringing the individual before the courts as soon as possible.
“I reaffirmed the absolute commitment of An Garda Siochana to this outcome.”
An Garda Siochana has been contacted for comment.