No further inquiry in death of Father Molloy 30 years ago
An independent examination of a garda review into the death of a priest in Offaly 30 years ago has found that a further inquiry is not warranted.
Father Niall Molloy was found dead in the Clara home of Richard and Therese Flynn in July 1985. Richard Flynn was subsequently acquitted of manslaughter.
Following newspaper claims that the crime was not thoroughly investigated, the Garda’s Serious Crime Review Team reviewed the case, and a file was sent to the DPP, but the office directed no prosecutions.
Following continued concerns expressed by Mr Molloy's family, the Government tasked Senior Counsel Dominic McGinn with reviewing the latest Garda investigation.
The Minister for Justice today published that report which recommends that a further inquiry is not warranted.
In a statement, Frances Fitzgerald said she acknowledges the tragic death of Father Niall Molloy, but said it is not always possible to find answers for families whose loved ones die in violent circumstances.
"That decision will have come as a disappointment to Father Molloy’s family but we need to recognise that this is the independent process through which our system determines whether criminal charges should be brought for serious offences," the Minister wrote.
"The DPP must proceed on the basis of evidence and the law, notwithstanding the strength of feelings which exist regarding a case…
"I know that it is not always possible to obtain answers for families who have lost a loved one in violent circumstances … ultimately, however, I have to determine whether further inquiry would be
warranted in the public interest and would have some prospect of success."
