asked the Taoiseach if, arising from his reported statements to journalists in New York that the publication on 11 March 1984 of a transcript of a telephone conversation would be discussed at a meeting of the Government on Tuesday, 13 March, he will state the decision that was taken by the Government in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Transcript of Telephone Conservation.
1.
I would refer the Deputy to the statement issued by the Government after its meeting on Tuesday, March 13 and also to the statement released by the Garda Press Office, indicating that a Garda investigation has been initiated. The results of this investigation will be reported to the Garda Commissioner and also to the DPP should the evidence collected suggest that a criminal charge is warranted.
In the circumstances, I do not propose to comment further on the matter now.
Is the Taoiseach aware that a series of transcripts were published at the weekend disclosing further private conversations? Did he or the Minister for Justice give permission for these further breaches of the Officials Secrets Act, allegedly with the assistance of a civil servant in the Department of Justice.
That is a separate question. It does not arise on the question asked here.
I appreciate the Taoiseach's reluctance to answer the question but it is related. The initial leak which allegedly came from a high Garda source is also related. In view of the fact that the Taoiseach claimed in the statement to which I refer that the original offence had been compounded, would he clarify what he meant by that?
I am somewhat taken aback. Is the Deputy alleging that the original leak came from a high Garda source and has the Deputy any evidence for that allegation?
You do not ask questions, you answer them.
I can see we will not have any satisfaction from the Taoiseach.
(Interruptions.)
Deputy Woods without interruption.
Does the Taoiseach agree that a full sworn judicial inquiry, promised by the Government in the first instance, is the only way to clear up this matter? Will he now set up that promised inquiry?
If the Deputy has evidence that the original leak came from a high Garda source——
Well you know about it.
——it is his duty to furnish that evidence to the Garda authorities so that it can be investigated.
Deputies
Hear, hear.
Is it from an authoritative source?
I hope the Deputy will do so.
I trust that the Taoiseach is aware that it has been alleged publicly that the initial leak came from a high Garda source. Does the Taoiseach not agree that this and subsequent revelations which were obvious breaches of the Official Secrets Act should be investigated and that the proper way to do it is through a judicial inquiry?
I am not aware of any such allegation except from the Deputy.