HSE and gardaí ordered to release key reports

The HSE and gardaí have been ordered to release key reports into the Grace foster abuse scandal and the re-opening of Stepaside garda station by tonight amid claims they are deliberately blocking investigations.

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) issued the demand as it launched a scathing attack on those in charge of the two services, saying they are trying to “weasel out” of revealing what happened.

At its first meeting since the Dáil’s return, PAC members from all parties criticised both HSE director general Tony O’Brien and acting garda commissioner Donal Ó Cualáin — who are set to be questioned at public meetings next Thursday unless the files are released.