Call for investigation into handling of garda disclosures

The Seanad has heard calls for a full, independent investigation into the handling of protected disclosures within An Garda Síochána. Two individuals who handled such disclosures have accused senior management of undermining reforms designed to protect whistleblowers. Independent Senator Michael McDowell stated that he had predicted management would attempt to cover up the scandal.

While Minister for Justice Jim O Callaghan has rejected calls for a public inquiry, Senator McDowell called for a thorough investigation to restore public confidence in the force and its supervision. Opposition politicians have also demanded that former Justice Minister Helen McEntee and current Minister Jim O Callaghan answer questions regarding the handling of garda whistleblower allegations.

However, Ms McEntee has indicated she has already addressed the controversy. Senator McDowell revealed that the efforts to investigate the holster protected disclosure issue were illegally countermanded by the then Commissioner. The careers of honourable people who served Ireland have been devastated by these actions, he concluded.

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