Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

These are difficult times. As one who has worn a uniform in the past and whose brother was a member of An Garda Síochána, I am deeply saddened by what is happening. I am sure it is extremely uncomfortable for the Minister because I believe she is an excellent Minister for Justice and Equality. We need to broaden this out and find out exactly what is happening and how far and how deep into the organisation it goes because it is unfair on those young men and women who are out on the streets every night of the week keeping this country safe.

I am desperately sorry for the Commissioner if she has done nothing wrong but we do not know whether she has done anything wrong. Unlike Senator Boyhan, if I was in the Commissioner's position, I would step aside and allow a clear investigation to take place. In respect of the original investigation, what instructions were given so that only the complaint about the superintendent ended up being investigated? There are so many ongoing whistleblower cases in An Garda Síochána. Sergeant McCabe has been put through the ringer to the point where his career was almost destroyed. I do not know how anybody in uniform who is tied up in this could want to stay in uniform until they regain the respect of the force because with all these allegations, the respect of the force is gone. It is a terrible and sad situation. It is not what the Minister would want and it is certainly not what I would want. I am sure the Commissioner would not want this. It must be the most uncomfortable position to be in. One of her own lieutenants is making the most serious allegations against her and her former boss. We cannot turn a blind eye to this. It is a matter of grave concern. I do not know how it will be solved but I think we need a root and branch examination. I thank the Leas-Cathaoirleach for his forbearance and time.