Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

To summarise this, as far as I can ascertain we have two directly conflicting accounts of what happened in respect of the whistleblowers coming forward. The reason by the way that this element is so important is that, in respect of accountability structures, provisions and protections for whistleblowers are essential, albeit as an action of last resort. The Commissioner said it is extraordinary that only two officers came forward out of a force of 13,000 officers. Others have responded that it would be extraordinary if more than two came forward given the nature of these matters. For me, the case for the committee to hear from the whistleblower or whistleblowers is now compelling. I have not yet heard testimony from either individual but I am certain from what I know that they would strenuously contest that account and defend the position that they acted absolutely within the procedures of An Garda Síochána, including making a full report to the confidential recipient. The committee needs to get to the bottom of that matter.

The Commissioner expressed concern about the use of the committee as a platform from which individuals might exploit opportunities to make wild allegations or unsubstantiated claims. Looking at the matter from the point of view of whistleblowers and in a balanced and objective way, we cannot allow the committee to become a platform from which to disparage or cast question marks over the good name of those two individuals who came forward. Does the Commissioner appreciate that?