The family of an Irish woman missing in Medjugorje fears a local cover-up, Tony Gregory (Independent, Dublin Central) told the Dáil.
Winnie Brady has been missing since travelling there on a religious pilgrimage in September. Mr Gregory, who raised the matter with his constituency colleague (Joe Costello, Labour), said Ms Brady's sisters were distraught eight weeks after her disappearance.
"They strongly believe that the search in Medjugorje has been inadequate and more must be done. They are fearful of a local cover-up designed to prevent a negative impact on tourism in that area." He suggested that members of the Army and Garda, already stationed in Bosnia, might work with the authorities in undertaking the search.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Conor Lenihan said the Department of Foreign Affairs and the embassy in Slovenia, which was also accredited to Bosnia-Herzegovina, had provided active consular assistance and support to the family.
The embassy in Slovenia had been in ongoing contact with the relevant authorities in Bosnia-Herzegovina, including the local police force, rescue services, politicians and senior officials in the Medjugorje area.
A diplomatic officer from the embassy had travelled to the region to liaise with local police, relevant agencies and other officials involved in the search.
The officer had many meetings with members of her family and the Irish Ambassador had travelled to Medjugorje and the regional capital, Mostar.
Mr Lenihan said Mr Gregory's suggestion would be passed on to Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern.