Trevor Ó Clochartaigh (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I noted his comment that one of his reasons for attending the meeting was to try to renew confidence in the Garda, etc. Deputy Clare Daly's point on exoneration was important, given the evidence provided for the committee. Notwithstanding what has been stated in the media, Mr. Simon O'Brien told the committee that the people of the State were and should be horrified to believe one State agency would in any way be surveilling another State agency. He had no evidence at the time that An Garda Síochána was surveilling his organisation, but he did not rule it out.
When Mr. FitzGerald appeared before us and was asked whether he was exonerating the Garda with GSOC's press release, he stated:

I would not use the word "exoneration" because it has specific connotations. What we did say was that no such evidence to point to the Garda was disclosed. The Deputy can call that exoneration if he wishes, but it is not the same as categorically ruling in or categorically ruling out.

This certainly points to a suspicion. Does the Minister agree? Does he also agree with the Irish Council for Civil Liberties's point to the effect that the inquiry should be undertaken under the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004?