Logan seeks to probe mistreatment claims

THE Children’s Ombudsman wants the power to investigate allegations of mistreatment of juveniles in garda custody.

The call from Emily Logan follows the decision of the parents of a 14-year-old boy who died in garda custody in September 2002 to initiate High Court action against the State.

Pat and Siobhán Rossiter allege their son Brian was assaulted while in garda custody in Clonmel Garda Station.

“Under the UN convention and Children’s Act, the rights and welfare of children must be protected,” she said. “I have a number of pressing concerns about youth justice and I would support a greater advocacy role for children in garda custody.”

Ms Logan said that while she had powers to investigate complaints against public bodies, the gardaí were excluded. The ombudsman is due to launch her first annual report tomorrow.

Gardaí have rejected the Rossiter family claims and maintain Brian died as a result of an assault on him by an older man two days beforehand.

Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy has criticised some of the media coverage. He said that since there was a case before the Clonmel Circuit Court in relation to the assault, he could not comment any further.

He had set up a review of garda practices and procedures regarding custody.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell said he had received a fresh report into Brian’s death.