Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Following on from Senator Crown's words, I am concerned as the plot thickens around the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission review. Only one question now counts - has the public confidence in this review? It does not.

To achieve confidence, it is becoming clear that on this issue alone, the Minister, Deputy Shatter, must step aside. He is a fine Minister with an incredible work rate and a great intellect but he is too heavily embroiled in this issue for the public to have confidence in him. The review must be seen to be independent of him. It is critical that the public feel confident around such security issues. If the Deputy Leader commented on what I have said, it would be useful.

Other questions arise. Will the review's terms of reference be debated in the Houses? As Senator Quinn stated, the Garda Síochána Act, which set up the GSOC in 2005, makes it clear that the GSOC should report to the Legislature. The confidential recipient was stood down yesterday. When will a new one be appointed?