Internal investigation into Garda put on hold

Disciplinary proceedings have been put on hold against a Dublin-based garda who was accused of assaulting a member of the public.

The criminal charge was struck out, but now Garda Declan O'Connor of Blackrock Garda Station is attempting to stop an internal disciplinary investigation.

Garda Declan O'Connor was accused of striking a member of the public during a row at Blackrock garda station in June 2012.

The man had been arrested after security at Seapoint Dart station requested garda assistance because the man was allegedly being abusive and violent.

Following a complaint, Garda O'Connor was investigated by GSOC and charged with assault - but the case was struck out in the District Court last year when the alleged victim withdrew his co-operation.

GSOC then investigated the incident further and on foot of its report to the Garda authorities, Garda O'Connor became the subject of internal disciplinary proceedings.

However, h has succeeded in having that inquiry put on hold by questioning GSOC's right to look into the matter a second time after the criminal case collapsed.