Three members of An Garda Síochána are facing possible disciplinary action on foot of a recommendation by the force’s ombudsman, which investigated the controversial death of cyclist Shane O'Farrell.

The 23-year-old law graduate was killed in a hit-and-run while cycling near his home at Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan on 2 August 2011.

The driver of the car, Zigimantas Gridziuska, was on bail for other charges at the time of Mr O'Farrell's death. He left the scene but later handed himself in to gardaí.

Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan has told the Seanad that he understood the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has completed its investigation, and a recommendation of disciplinary action had been sent to Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.

Mr Flanagan said it was now "a matter entirely for the Garda Commissioner alone" to decide whether such disciplinary action should be taken.

Gridziuska had previous convictions including for theft, drugs and road traffic offences and received suspended sentences for some of these.

Originally from Lithuania, he also had convictions there for theft and criminal damage.

Mr Flanagan told the Seanad that the actions of the gardaí fell short of what should have happened where a person is on bail or remand and is subsequently arrested for other offences.

Mr O'Farrell's family has been seeking a full public inquiry into the Garda investigation.

However, Mr Flanagan has appointed former district court judge Gerard Haughton to conduct a 'scoping exercise' to determine what issues relating to the investigation still need to be examined.

He added: "Shane O'Farrell was obviously a much loved son and brother and his death has clearly been devastating for his family to whom I once again extend my sincere condolences."

GSOC completed its first report last year and found there were no grounds for criminal proceedings against any member of the force.

Mr O'Farrell's family have said they want to know the rank of the three gardaí who are facing possible disciplinary action.

Shane's mother, Lucia, told RTÉ News: "We want to know if they are junior or senior officers. Gardaí have a duty to protect and serve, but they didn't do their duty in Shane's case".

She said she was in the Seanad's public gallery this afternoon during Mr Flanagan's address, along with her daughter Amy.

Mrs O'Farrell said Minister Flanagan should announce an "immediate public inquiry" into the case, adding: "Both Houses of the Oireachtas have voted in favour of a public inquiry. It is the will of the people".