Broader investigation not ruled out in Arms Trial controversy

John O'Donoghue is expected to make a statement to the Dail next week on the Arms Trial controversy.

The Minister for Justice is currently making enquiries from various Government departments.

Any Government decision on a furthered investigation into the arms trial will be made after the report is studied.

Less than 24 hours after allegations over tampering with evidence relating to the Arms Trial emerged, John O'Donoghue asked the Dail for time to gather information.

The Minister for Justice began enquiries in his own department, the offices of the Attorney General, the Chief State Solicitor and the Garda authorities.

These enquiries are ongoing and the minister is awaiting their results.

Minister O'Donoghue is expected to address the Dail as soon as the information is at his disposal.

This could happen next week when the Dail resumes after its Easter break.

A spokesperson for the minister said at this stage he would not rule out a more broadly based inquiry.