Garda Ombudsman meets Sinn Féin TDs over allegations about rogue cops and informers

AFTER MEETING the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission at its Dublin HQ on Tuesday about allegations of Garda malpractice he had made in the Dáil last week, Sligo/Leitrim Sinn Féin TD Martin Kenny said he is convinced more than ever that the only way to resolve these matters is for the Justice Minister to set up a Commission of Investigation.

It is clear from the meeting that GSOC is not equipped to deal with these issues because of deficits in legislation and resources, the Sinn Féin TD said, a view echoed by Cavan/Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin who accompanied him.

They met with Judge Mary Ellen Ring (GSOC Chair) and Carmel Foley (GSOC Commissioner) to request information about the investigations into some of the matters raised by Martin Kenny about Garda actions and the handling of informants in the Leitrim region.

Although the meeting was constructive, the Sinn Féin TDs said it is clear that GSOC needs strengthening in terms of legislation and resources.

“With its hands tied by legislation and a shortage of resources to deal with the volume of complaints it receives,” Martin Kenny said, “GSOC is clearly not the vehicle for the investigation of any ongoing situations involving numerous interconnected complaints, including the inappropriate handling of informants.”

Now Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien will look at Dáil legislation to make GSOC more relevant and investigate cases where gardaí have retired, incidents that occurred more than a year ago, and to link interconnected complaints.