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

The Commissioner’s report explained that the assistance of police officers from other jurisdictions in intelligence gathering may be a necessary tactic in the circumstances where external activists whose identities are unknown to local police seek to engage in certain activities that need to be investigated.

The report also stated that the capacity of An Garda Síochána to enter into such arrangements was vital in the interests of national security and that the maintenance of confidentiality was an essential feature of any such arrangements. The clear view of the Garda authorities is that to disclose the details of any particular intelligence co-operation would impair the ability of An Garda Síochána to enter into such arrangements. I must, of course, have due regard to the views of the Garda Commissioner in respect of these operational policing matters.

In light of developments which have taken place outside this jurisdiction since these matters first came to light, including the establishment by the UK Government of the Pitchford inquiry, I have requested a fresh report from the Garda Commissioner on any issues arising. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that they have met at a senior level with their counterparts in the London Metropolitan Police Service in respect of this issue and will remain in ongoing contact with them.

I will fully consider this report when it is available, including the issue of whether it may be suitable for publication. We have to think of the context of intelligence gathering and security and it may not be feasible to publish it.

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