Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 February 2014
539. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps he has taken in view of reports that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, GSOC, was spied on; the nature of the espionage; if GSOC investigations were compromised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7499/14]
View answer540. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if current Garda Ombudsman Commission investigations are being reviewed in view of espionage allegations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7500/14]
View answer541. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has discussed the issue of illegal surveillance being conducted on the Garda Ombudsman with the Garda Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7501/14]
View answer547. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the seriousness of the surveillance on GSOC, when he was made aware of this; and if he will provide assurances that this surveillance not was carried out on behalf of members of the Garda who were being investigated by GSOC. [7508/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 539 to 541, inclusive, and 547 together.
I briefed Cabinet today on developments that have occurred in relation to concerns that GSOC may have been subject to surveillance, following on from the Committee on Public Service Oversight and Petitions hearing last Wednesday. I have also briefed the Cabinet in relation to further information and documentation received from GSOC and further technical information I have received regarding the alleged surveillance of GSOC. In light of the above, it was agreed at Cabinet today to appoint a retired High Court Judge to enquire into all matters of relevance. I will be appearing tomorrow before the Joint Oireachtas Petitions Committee and will answer any questions that arise in relation to GSOC following on from the meeting it held Wednesday last.
