Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

As we know, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is statutorily independent in the performance of its functions. Today, however, the Minister has repeatedly questioned its decision-making. He referred to his heightened concern about the decisions it made in this matter. We have heard that the Taoiseach asked the GSOC to level with the Minister. The Minister said the decision the commission took was a mystery to him. He told us there was an absence of evidence for the decision it took. The GSOC is akin to a police force in many ways. Is it appropriate for the Minister for Justice and Equality to be getting into detailed questioning of decisions it has taken under its police powers? The Minister seems to find my question funny but it is a fundamental point pertaining to the division of powers.