Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

When replying to the Deputy, I must stress that counsel have been asked to make a recommendation to me on what action, if any, might be appropriate in each case. The panel is independent and there is no restriction on the nature of the recommendations it might take. A wide range of actions could be taken in respect of any particular case, such as referral to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, GSOC, referral to the Garda Commissioner for further information or for disciplinary action or referral to a commission for examination. This remains open as an option to counsel if they believe a commission of inquiry is warranted. There are no restrictions on them and I must await the outcome of the 300-plus cases to ascertain whether there is a recommendation for a commission in any of them. Obviously, if such a recommendation is made, I will follow up with that, but I must await the outcome of the investigation of the cases.

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