Prosecution to be brought in relation to Denis Donaldson killing

Justice, migration and home affairs minister Jim O’Callaghan made the announcement yesterday after meeting with Mr Donaldson’s daughter Jane Kearney, her husband Ciarán, and their solicitor.

Mr Donaldson’s family has long campaigned for a public inquiry into the killing of the former Sinn Féin member and self-declared informant.

Mr O’Callaghan said it was “a matter of regret that it has not yet been possible to bring those responsible to justice”.

“I assured the Donaldson family that the Garda criminal investigation into Mr Donaldson’s killing remains active and open,” the minister said.

“Furthermore, I have been informed by Garda authorities that directions have been received to prosecute an individual for offences in this case and proceedings are underway in this regard.

“In those circumstances, I conveyed to the Donaldson family that I did not consider it appropriate to establish a separate commission of inquiry.”

He continued: “I emphasised the importance of allowing An Garda Síochána to continue its investigation with a view to bringing the individual before the courts as soon as possible.

“I reaffirmed the absolute commitment of An Garda Síochána to this outcome.”