Motions over commissioner could be legally halted

Three no confidence motions in Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan could be blocked after it emerged Oireachtas officials are taking senior counsel advice on whether they can be heard.

Despite Sinn Féin, Labour and Solidarity-People Before Profit all planning to put down motions seeking Ms O’Sullivan’s dismissal, the Irish Examiner understands they may ultimately be prevented from doing so.

In the immediate aftermath of the parties confirming they are seeking the motions last Monday, officials for the cross-party committee on privilege and procedures sought internal Oireachtas legal advice on the moves.