Garda inspectorate - Ombudsman’s powers must not be eroded

TO his credit, Justice Minister Michael McDowell has reacted swiftly to create a special unit to examine the performance of the gardaí, a key recommendation of the Morris Tribunal report on corruption in the force.

But the minister is being disingenuous if he cannot understand the confusion sparked by his move to set up the new inspectorate with powers to audit garda practices, systems and records, and with the specific aim of enhancing professional standards and heightening the accountability of the gardaí.

There can be no denying the need for such scrutiny following the damning interim report from Justice Frederick Morris on the corruption and the web of lies woven around the planting of hoax explosives to advance the careers of gardaí in Donegal.