For the purpose of dealing fully with the Deputy's question I think it would be helpful if I were to distinguish between the steps taken in relation to the irregularities which occurred in the Carriage Office and those taken in relation to the intimidation and threats which followed.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the irregularities in the Carriage Office referred to in the question first came to light in September 1982. Following an internal investigation by the Garda authorities criminal proceedings were instituted against four members of the Force resulting in three convictions. One of the three members convicted had retired before the court proceedings and two were dismissed from the Force following their convictions. The fourth member concerned was found to have been in breach of disciplinary regulations and a penalty was imposed under those regulations. I am informed by the Garda authorities that following the occurrences referred to in the question, revised procedures and arrangements were introduced in the Carriage Office and that these are working satisfactorily.
With regard to the intimidation and threats I understand from the Garda authorities that these were made by way of anonymous letters and telephone calls. The matter was fully investigated but it was not possible to obtain sufficient evidence to initiate proceedings.
I should say at this point, that it has never been the practice to disclose publicly, details of Garda investigations or of the outcome of Garda disciplinary proceedings, which under the regulations in question are required to be held in private, save in singular instances where there are exceptional circumstances such as to warrant a departure from that practice. I am satisfied that the disclosure to the House of the information I have just given is warranted in the quite exceptional circumstances existing in this instance.
