Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for the opportunity to speak in this important debate on the Garda Inspectorate report on the fixed charge penalty processing system. Before getting to the detail of the report, I should say I have had major concerns in recent days about the general management and running of our justice system, which has been severely damaged and undermined, with a lack of trust in the system now emerging. This problem must be fixed now and we must start at the very top. Trust and confidence are major issues, and if the people do not have trust and confidence in a line Minister, he must go. Only then can we begin reform and change the action plan. The process must start at the top. The Garda Commissioner has gone but the Minister must also go. This is not a personal issue but it concerns the management and supervision of our justice system. I remind the Minister that this debate concerns the holding of a Minister to account, public service and leadership.

I use this opportunity to commend and thank our two great whistleblowers, Garda John Wilson and Sergeant Maurice McCabe, who have done this State a great service.

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