Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice Martin Kenny TD has expressed his outrage at the statements in the Dáil today by acting Minister for Justice Heather Humphreys TD that the report of the scoping exercise into the killing of Shane O’Farrell by Judge Robert Haughton is being delayed as the judge is awaiting material from the O’Farrell family.

Teachta Kenny said:

“Frankly, I could not believe the words coming out of the minister’s mouth in the Dáil this morning when I asked about the long-delayed publication of the report. 

“She should apologise to Shane O’Farrell’s mother for suggesting that she has in some way contributed to the delay.

“Anyone who knows Lucia O’Farrell, or who has heard her speak, knows that she has fought tirelessly for the past ten years for justice for her beloved son. Despite her obvious grief and distress, she has left no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice for Shane.

“The Dáil has passed a motion calling for a full state enquiry into the killing of Shane O’Farrell who, on 2 August 2011, was cycling home when he was struck by a car driven by Zigimantas Gradzuiska near Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan.

“Gradzuiska had previous convictions for aggravated burglary, road traffic offences and the handling of stolen property, among others. 

“The O’Farrell family has been asking how he was on bail from multiple courts, and at liberty at that time.

“I am calling on the Minister to expedite the publication of the report. and to begin arrangements for the full state enquiry that this case demands. Meanwhile, I look forward to her apology to Shane’s mother, Lucia.”