Tánaiste and Garda commissioner at odds over new Armed Support Unit’s lack of boss

The Tánaiste and Garda commissioner appeared to contradict each other yesterday as to why the new Armed Support Unit for Dublin does not have a dedicated boss.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald said she had filled all Garda vacancies there were and that the absence of a chief superintendent over the unit is an “operational decision” for the commissioner.

Nóirín O’Sullivan said she is “working closely” with the Department of Justice and Policing Authority “in respect of vacancies that we have” and would be making a case for a full-time firearms chief in the coming months.