Politicians subject to new corruption watchdog

Politicians and senior backroom officials will be forced to provide in-depth details of any potential “conflict of interest” issues, with a new watchdog set up to ensure the moves take place, under new Mahon Tribunal-inspired Government plans.

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Brendan Howlin confirmed the legal change is imminent as he published a draft document outlining measures which is open to public consultation.

In an anti-corruption move first outlined in the Programme for Government – before being delayed for four years – Mr Howlin’s department is seeking to beef up defences to tackle any actual or perceived concerns that those holding positions of power may be misusing public funds.