The Garda Commissioner, Pat Byrne, has transferred five Gardaí from Donegal to other divisions. The transfers follow the enquiry by the Assistant Garda Commissioner, Kevin Carty, into the activities of Gardaí in the county. Mr Byrne received the results of that enquiry, and they are also being sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Pat Byrne said the transfers were both in the public interest and the interests of the Gardaí, and should not be seen as an indication of any wrongdoing on the part of those transferred. He said it was of the utmost importance that the unique interaction that exists between the Gardaí and the community is maintained, and enhanced. It is also vital that the performance of members of the Donegal division is recognised, and the morale of Donegal Gardai is in no way jeopardised.
Meanwhile, Fine Gael has called on the Minister for Justice to publish the Garda report on the McBrierty case. The report was received this evening by the Garda Commissioner, Pat Bryne. Fine Gael spokesperson on justice, Alan Shatter, said the allegations are "extremely serious" and that the public is entitled to know the outcome of the investigations. He said that the Commissioner should also clarify whether or not there should now be an independent investigation.
