Connolly ‘had pedigree and exemplary record’

Oliver Connolly is a barrister and recognised expert in the area of mediation. In June 2011 he was appointed as the confidential recipient for people wishing to act as whistleblowers for alleged corruption by An Garda Síochána.

He had earned €12,500 a year for providing his services until he was relieved of his duties yesterday morning.

He is also a lecturer in arbitration at Trinity College Dublin and principal at Friary Law, the country’s largest legal mediation company.