The Government has acceded to a request for more time to complete its work from the Smithwick Tribunal. Minister for Justice Alan Shatter confirmed the Government will shortly move to extend the conclusion date to July 31st, 2013.
The tribunal, which is investigating allegations of collusion between members of An Garda and the IRA in the murders of two RUC officers, Chief Supt Harry Breen and Supt Bob Buchanan, was set up in 2005. It began taking evidence in 2006 and began public hearings in the summer of 2011.
In a statement, Mr Shatter said the Government was “anxious” the tribunal complete its work as quickly as possible. But he said it was clear an extension was “necessary” for the tribunal to complete its work.