Purcell will not answer questions on Callinan exit

Department of Justice secretary general Brian Purcell is refusing to answer questions about the recent controversial resignation of the Garda commissioner as his future as department chief hangs in the air.

Mr Purcell’s refusal to TDs yesterday came after the Cabinet ordered a review of his department as well as a separate one on the management issues in the gardaí.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald announced several measures in response to last week’s critical Guerin report which highlighted failings by gardaí and the Department of Justice responding to allegations against the force.

The Cabinet agreed:

- To set up a commission of investigation into allegations of wrongdoing by gardaí;

- For the Garda Inspectorate to review serious crime investigation, management, and operational issues in the force;

- An external review of performance, management, and administration of the justice department;

- To bring forward legislation to strengthen the operation of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission.

Ms Fitzgerald signalled that she would withhold judgement on Mr Purcell, saying it was “premature” to say she did not have confidence on him before the review was done.

The review will be completed by the summer, possibly by former civil servants, a Government spokesman said.

Ms Fitzgerald, along with Taoiseach Enda Kenny, yesterday apologised to Sgt Maurice McCabe, the whistleblower whose concerns about the force led to the Guerin report.

Pressure is mounting on Mr Purcell, who yesterday told the Oireachtas justice committee he would answer questions about the Guerin report if he appeared before TDs but would not discuss the resignation of garda commissioner Martin Callinan.

Mr Callinan resigned hours after a late visit at his home from Mr Purcell, who was ordered to go there by Mr Kenny. What was said is a mystery.