Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017
208. Deputy John Curran asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has received advice from the Attorney General on a report (details supplied) and brought the matter to Cabinet; if not, when she expects to do so; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1864/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy is referring to a report which I have received from Mr Justice Iarfhlaith O'Neill of his Review relating to two protected disclosures which were made to me by members of An Garda Síochána in early October.
Mr Justice O'Neill was asked to review the allegations of wrongdoing contained in the disclosures, to make any inquiries with persons or bodies that he considered appropriate in relation to the review and to report to me on the conclusion of the review, including any recommendations which he may consider necessary in relation to any further action which may be appropriate and warranted to address the allegations.
The Report, which I received on 7 December 2016, sets out in detail the allegations contained in the protected disclosures. In view of the nature of those allegations, and the fact that third parties are mentioned, the Report was referred to the Attorney General for her advice on how to proceed, including the question of what material might properly be put in the public domain, having regard to the rights of all concerned. Advices were received from the Attorney General's Office which raised further issues and which are the subject of ongoing consultation between my Department and the Office. This is with a view to bringing proposals to Government as quickly as possible. These proposals will obviously be guided by the conclusions and recommendations of Mr. Justice Iarfhlaith O Neill as regards what further action might be necessary, and deal with the issue of putting those conclusions and recommendations into the public domain.
