FG welcomes Garda inspectorate plans

Fine Gael TD John Deasy has welcomed the Government's plans to establish an independent inspectorate to investigate complaints against the Gardaí.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell is due to announce the plan today.

The inspectorate will replace the current system whereby gardaí investigate complaints against their own colleagues.

Despite welcoming the new body, Mr Deasy said the Gardaí were still seriously under-resourced and suffering from chronic staff shortages.

The Fine Gael Justice spokesperson said the inspectorate announcement was "a smokescreen to distract from staff shortages".