GSOC seeks ‘more teeth’ and speedier case details

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is requesting legal powers to go to the courts to compel the Garda commissioner to hand over information as part of a campaign to be given more “teeth”.

Addressing the Oireachtas justice committee, Judge Mary Ellen Ring, the head of GSOC, said she has serious concerns regarding its ability to investigate complaints from Garda whistleblowers.

Judge Ring said the watchdog needs greater powers over Garda disciplinary proceedings and the enforcement of GSOC recommendations on systemic issues in the force.