merrion street

The Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD, today received the Report of Mr Justice Iarfhlaith O’Neill of his Review relating to two protected disclosures which were made to her 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 the Tánaiste 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 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 is being 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.

The Tánaiste is very grateful to Mr Justice O'Neill for carrying out this work so expeditiously and presenting his Report, which will form the basis for ensuring that the protected disclosures are properly addressed. When the advice from the Attorney General is received, the Tánaiste will bring forward proposals to Government to this end. The Tánaiste is not in a position to make any further comment at this time.