The brother of a Dublin garda shot dead in an IRA ambush in 1984 last night welcomed the decision of the Minister for Justice, Mr O'Donoghue, to order a review of the support given to victims of violence related to the conflict in the North.
The former Tanaiste, Mr John Wilson, has been appointed by the Minister to carry out the review, which is expected to be along similar lines to that conducted by the North's Victims' Commissioner, Sir Kenneth Bloomfield.
Mr Wilson will be asked to look at the services in place to meet the needs of people in the Republic who have suffered as a result of the Troubles.
The Minister said he had been confirmed in his view that such a review was necessary at a meeting this week with members of the family of Det Garda Frank Hand, who was shot dead in Co Meath in 1984.
Mr Hand's brother, Michael, welcomed the announcement and said the Minister had been "true to his word".
"I think it's a recognition, even though it might be a belated one, that there are victims here who have needs. I think John Wilson is an excellent choice and I would hope my family will have the opportunity to speak with him."
Mr Wilson said last night he intended to do a "thorough job" within the terms of reference of the review.
