Govt to examine Dublin-Monaghan bombing reports

The Government is today expected to consider the long-awaited report into the 1974 Dublin and Monaghan bombings.

The findings, which were compiled by barrister Patrick MacEntee, were presented to the Taoiseach a fortnight ago.

Thirty-three people died and 300 were injured when four car bombs exploded in Dublin and Monaghan on May 17, 1974.

No organisation claimed responsibility but loyalist paramilitaries were widely blamed for the attacks.

Last week Bertie Ahern asked his officials to prepare the report to be considered by the Cabinet at today’s weekly meeting.

Mr Ahern is hoping to publish the findings before the Dáil rises for Easter on April 5.

The Attorney General Rory Brady has spent the last 14 days considering the legal implications of releasing details of the report.

The Commission of Investigation into the bombings was established in April 2005 under new legislation to fast-track inquiries.

It was due to provide a final report to An Taoiseach within six months, but has applied for eight extensions in almost two years.

Following publication, the Justice for the Forgotten group wants a debate on collusion in the Dáil and the Seanad before the General Election.

Mr MacEntee and his officials are believed to have travelled outside the Republic to interview individuals with crucial evidence.

The terms of reference of the Commission of Investigation were to undertake a thorough investigation and make a report on specific matters considered by the Government, including why the Garda investigation into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings was wound down in 1974 and why the gardaí did not follow up a number of leads.