asked the Minister for Justice if the Garda authorities have investigated an allegation made at the meeting of Cork Corporation held on Tuesday, 24th June, 1958, that an attempt had been made to bribe a member of that body in connection with the election of Lord Mayor; and if he is yet in a position to state the outcome of such investigations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Bribery Allegation.
asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware that a member of the Cork Corporation stated publicly at a meeting of the city council held on 24th June that he had been offered a bribe for his vote in connection with the election of Lord Mayor; and, if so, whether the Gardaí have been instructed to investigate the matter; and if he will indicate what action he proposes to take.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 12 together.
The Garda Síochána have not investigated this allegation, of which the only knowledge they have is what they have seen in the public Press. If, however, the person making the charge is prepared to submit evidence to the Gardaí in support of his allegation the Garda authorities will have the matter investigated immediately.
Is the Minister aware it was published in the public Press that a crime had been committed and, if so, does the Minister propose to have the matter investigated?
As I stated in my reply, if evidence is supplied to the Gardaí, there will be an immediate investigation.
Have the Gardaí asked the person who made the allegation any questions in the matter?
The Gardaí are not expected to intervene every time a charge is made. If there is any substance in the charge at all, the individual ought to come forward and produce the evidence upon which the Gardaí can take action but they cannot deal with every allegation made at a public meeting.
Am I to take it from the Minister's reply that the Gardaí will take no action in regard to a matter which has caused grave disquiet in Cork City?
I am not suggesting that. If the Gardaí get any evidence, they will investigate the matter immediately.