Callinan to retract insult to whistle blowers amidst ministerial pressure

Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan is to withdraw his controversial comments describing the actions of two whistle- blowers as “disgusting”, following pressure from Government ministers.

The controversy has created a crisis for the Coalition since Transport Minister Leo Varadkar said last Thursday that a withdrawal of the remarks would be “appropriate” — a position that has since been backed by the Labour Party.

The Cabinet is due to meet tomorrow after members returned from St Patrick’s Day visits around the globe, and a showdown is anticipated between Mr Varadkar and Justice Minister Alan Shatter.