Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am, based on the legal advice available to me. I am also aware that, beyond that legal advice, there is a clear democratic safeguard, which is the powers a Government has relating to the removal or suspension of a Garda Commissioner. The amendment raises an important issue and, while we cannot envisage it today, it is right and proper in progressing this legislation to tease these things through. I have satisfied myself on the basis of the legal advice that the powers are there for the superior courts and I am aware of the power available to Government in terms of removal.