The Garda Commissioner has strongly reacted to criticisms of the force's response to the Garda Complaints Board investigation into the May Day disturbances.
Pat Byrne insisted that members of the Gardaí would not ignore offences committed by their colleagues.
He pointed out that the Gardaí who were investigated, charged and convicted had been brought before the courts by other Gardaí.
The Commissioner also said the provisions of the Garda Complaints Act meant that Gardaí could be compelled to co-operate with a Complaints Board investigation in certain circumstances.
Commissioner Byrne said he had not read the report into the May Day incidents and would not comment further until he had done so. He pointed out however that all members of the force had co-operated with the inquiry, which was conducted by Assistant Commissioner Tony Hickey.
The Chief Executive of the Board, Sean Hurley, said that the board could not compel the Gardaí to co-operate with its investigation until it had first sent the report to the DPP. The Board is examining whether it can compel over 100 Gardaí who are not being prosecuted to answer its questions.
