Inquiry set up into allegations of garda malpractice in Cavan/Monaghan

A Commission of Investigation is to be carried out into garda malpractice in the Cavan Monaghan division.

It follows a recommendation in the Guerin Report which examined allegations of misconduct in Bailieboro garda station raised by whistleblower, Sergeant Maurice McCabe.

The report led to the resignation of former Justice Minister Alan Shatter.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has confirmed the commission will be headed up by for High Court Judge Kevin O'Higgins.

Ms Fitzgerald said: "This commission of investigation is being established in line with the commitment made by government following our consideration of the Guerin report.

"The government has accepted Mr Guerin's recommendation that a commission of investigation would be desirable in the public interest to ensure continuing confidence in the institution of An Garda Síochána and the criminal justice system."

The commission is expected to report within one year after it is established.

The Garda Representative Association has welcomed the setting up of the O'Higgins Inquiry.