Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Feb 1995

Vol. 449 No. 4

Written Answers - Garda Disciplinary Matter.

Tony Killeen

Question:

143 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Justice if she will allow an appeal or institute a new inquiry into a Garda disciplinary matter (details supplied) in relation to which significant new information has come to hand. [3912/95]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I have made inquiries with the Garda authorities and have been informed that the following is the position:

Following a sworn inquiry under the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations, 1971, the Commissioner ordered the dismissal of the person detailed from the force. Under the regulations, the member applied for an appeal board review of the Commissioner's decision. The appeal board, with an independent chairman, reviewed the case and affirmed the Commissioner's decision and, accordingly, the member was dismissed from the force with effect from 23 May 1986.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the person detailed has, on several occasions since his dismissal, made various allegations against Garda personnel involved in the investigation of this matter and witnesses who gave evidence at the sworn inquiry. All these allegations have been investigated by senior Garda personnel and have been found to be without merit. I understand that the person detailed, and his legal representatives, have been informed on several occasions that the Commissioner did not consider there was sufficient reason to overturn the findings of the board of inquiry or to alter the decision to dismiss the member.

As the Commissioner is responsible in law for the internal administration of the force, including matters of discipline, I am disposed to be guided by him in this matter.