‘Parallel processes’ may replace proposed cross-border IRA sex abuse probe

A proposed cross-border inquiry into allegations of widespread sexual abuse by IRA members may be supplanted by two separate investigations, the Irish Independent reports.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has indicated that “parallel processes” taking place in the two jurisdictions may be a more realistic way to investigate alleged sexual offences by more than 30 alleged IRA members.

Ireland’s Department of Justice and Equality entered into dialogue with Northern Ireland’s Department of Justice early last year over the possibility of a cross-border probe.

Ms Fitzgerald said she believes both governments will work at the “highest level of co-operation” in the investigation.

However, she has hinted that separate investigations are more likely to take place north and south of the border, with some degree of information-sharing between authorities in both jurisdictions.

Ms Fitzgerald said: “What form that can take, I can’t say at this point, but I think all the building blocks are there to have the highest level of co-operation, and as the information becomes available, we will continue to examine how best that co-operation can be developed.

“Quite what form that can take remains to be seen but clearly there are legal obstacles. But you could have parallel processes that meet at a certain point in terms of information-sharing. I think there are possibilities.”