Calls for independent body to oversee whistleblower complaints and 'restore faith in gardaí’

The Government is open to setting up an independent, external body tasked with overseeing Garda whistleblower complaints due to growing concerns as to how allegations are being treated with the force.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald said she will consider establishing the powerful group after it was suggested by Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan.

Speaking at an Oireachtas justice committee hearing into controversial claims that Garda management had orchestrated a campaign against whistleblower Sergeant Maurice McCabe and others, Ms O’Sullivan again insisted she is “not privy to, nor would I approve, nor would I condone” any such actions.