Mr. Martin Callinan:

I see the point about the concept of the Garda investigating the Garda. That is why we have an inspectorate examining the system and an ombudsman examining how we do our business. I find there is a certain irony in that the very person charged with policing the security of this State, the person we all put our trust and belief in on a daily basis, the man responsible for all of these serious matters, is the very person who stands accused by the Deputy’s submission of not being open and transparent or producing a report as such. I find that extraordinary.

I do respect the notion that gardaí, in certain circumstances, should not be investigating one another. That is why we have the ombudsman commission to deal with those cases. Clearly, here, however, we have two people, out of a force of over 13,000, who are making extraordinary and serious allegations. There is not a whisper anywhere else or from any other member of the Garda Síochána, however, about this corruption, malpractice and other charges levelled against their fellow officers. Frankly, on a personal level I think it is quite disgusting.

That said, I have openly admitted here to this committee that there were difficulties within the system and that we have addressed them. That is where the Deputy and I will agree to differ, with the greatest of respect. I do respect what the Deputy is saying to me.