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Statement by Minister Flanagan on the Publication of the third interim report of the Disclosures Tribunal
I want to thank Mr Justice Peter Charleton for carrying out a very thorough investigation of the very serious matters covered by the Tribunal’s terms of reference.
The tribunal’s investigation goes to the heart of how An Garda Síochána handle allegations of wrongdoing within the force. It is imperative that the general public, whom the Gardaí serve, have confidence in the Garda Síochána and that any suspicion of wrongdoing is properly and fully investigated.
I want to highlight one important point made by Mr Justice Charleton in relation to Sergeant Maurice McCabe where he states that, in bringing to attention the serious state of lack of application to duty and failure to follow basic and fundamental procedures, that Sgt McCabe has done the State considerable service. His actions arose out of a legitimate drive to ensure that An Garda Síochána serves the people through hard work and diligence. Not only do I accept that description of Sgt McCabe but I fully endorse it.
Mr Justice Charleton has now concluded his investigations and presented his report to the Clerk of The Dáil. The report is a lengthy report and it requires, and deserves, careful study. It is worth pointing out that Mr Justice Charleton says in his report that it is important to read it in its entirety to appreciate the sense of its overall findings. I and my officials will examine the report to see what actions are required in the light of its contents and conclusions. I expect others to do likewise. We all have a responsibility to respond appropriately to the findings of the tribunal.
The expert Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland has just completed a root and branch analysis of policing in Ireland. The implementation of its report will be fundamental to the transformation of An Garda Síochána. I will bring an implementation plan to Cabinet this term, taking careful account of the conclusions of Mr Justice Charleton.
Note for Editors:
The third interim report of the Disclosure Tribunal can be read at http://www.disclosuretribunal.ie/en/DIS/Pages/Third_Interim_Report