Commissioner must explain logiv behind transfer of five Donegal Gardai

11 June 2005

by Cllr Joe Costello

Commenting on the transfer to Dublin of five Gardai referred to in the interim Morris Tribunal report, Labour Party Spokesperson on Justice, Deputy Joe Costello, has called on the Garda Commissioner to explain this puzzling decision that could be construed as rewarding rather than disciplining those named in the report.

Deputy Costello commented, "Simply moving these Gardai away from Donegal is an inappropriate, and inadequate initial response to the conclusions reached by Justice Fredrick Morris.

"These five men were exposed in the report as being culpable for the absolute mismanagement of the inquiry into the death of Richie Barrons. Transferring those who were criticised so severely in the report makes no sense whatsoever.

"In fact, a move to a desk job in a Dublin police station could be interpreted as a reward rather than a demotion. This is a knee-jerk decision that seeks to hide those responsible for the mess in Donegal, rather than act in accordance with Justice Morris's recommendations.

"Once again, the need for a mechanism or body, such as an Ombudsman, to conduct internal investigations is highlighted.

"I am calling on the Garda Commissioner to make an immediate statement on the logic behind this move."