HRC calls for garda complaints body to have power of arrest

THE new garda complaints body should be given full powers of arrest and detention when probing alleged criminal behaviour within the force, the fledgling Human Rights Commission said yesterday.

Commission president Maurice Manning said the proposals for the inspectorate did not go far enough, despite Government assurances the inspectorate will have the same powers, and more, as the North’s ombudsman.

Mr Manning yesterday launched what the commission believes should be the template for the planned inspectorate, legislation for which is expected to be delivered to the Dáil early next year.