McDonald urges probe into conduct of Mayo Gardaí

The Deputy Leader of Sinn Féin Mary Lou McDonald is calling for an investigation to be carried out into the conduct of Gardaí involved in the security operation at the Corrib gas site in Co. Mayo.

The call comes as a protest will take place later outside Leinster House, in opposition to remarks made by Gardaí in Rossport about two female protestors.

It is understood a tape recording of the Gardaí leaked to the media hears officers discussing raping the two protestors who had been arrested.

Last night the Garda Commissioner apologised for the controversy and said that the five Gardaí in question had been taken off the beat and put on desk duties while a full investigation is carried out by the Garda Ombudsman.

Ms McDonald said she is worried this incident may damage the public's confidence in the force.