Gardaí ask DPP to explain Curtin decision

GARDA representatives yesterday called on the Director of Public Prosecutions to explain why he gave the go-ahead for the collapsed Judge Brian Curtin prosecution.

The dramatic collapse of the case and the acquittal of Judge Curtin on child porn charges in Tralee Circuit Court on Friday will loom large over the annual conference of the Garda Representative Association, which begins tomorrow. The issue is expected to be the subject of emergency motions from a number of branches. Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy and Justice Minister Michael McDowell, who will both address the conference, are sure to come under the media spotlight.

While Mr Conroy has so far shied away from media questions, the minister will be quizzed on the Government's position. Early tomorrow, Mr McDowell will brief the Cabinet of his discussions with the Attorney General and outline the options including possible impeachment open to the Government.