Enda Kenny rejects Alan Shatter could stifle debate or alter probe

Taoiseach Enda Kenny has denied that former justice minister Alan Shatter had the power or influence to shut down a Dáil debate around the terms for an inquiry into alleged Garda malpractice.

Mr Kenny faced criticism yesterday after it emerged Fine Gael TD Mr Shatter and his lawyers contacted him several times to try and change the terms of the O’Higgins inquiry.

The revelation came after Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett was forced to withdraw comments about opposition parties during a row over the cancelled debate.