David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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No, it does not work like that. Politicians cannot tell the Garda what to do. I am sure the Deputy understands this. We cannot direct the Garda to do "X", "Y" or "Z". The Commissioner makes those decisions. It is the same with the Revenue Commissioners. They are independent, as they should be. If I came in here and told the Deputy that I directed the Garda Commissioner to do "X", "Y" or "Z", I am sure the Deputy would be the first man jumping off the fence and saying that I cannot do that and that the Garda should be independent. I am sure the Deputy's comments this morning are being noted. This is why this hearing is useful.