THE outgoing Garda Commissioner, Mr Patrick Culligan, said last night that the murders of journalist Veronica Guerin and Garda Jerry McCabe led to calls from the public for shootings and hangings. But, after a period of reflection, people will wish to retain the laws which have served the State well, he said.
Mr Culligan was speaking at a press conference in the Department of Justice following the announcement of his successor as Garda Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner Pat Byrne.
The Minister for Justice, Mrs Owen, paid tribute to Mr Culligan, saying that in all her dealings with him since she became Minister she had valued his good advice.
"It has been a time during which the nature of serious crime has changed significantly," the Minister added.
"The growing viciousness in crime and the extremely damaging activities of those involved in drug-related crime have posed special challenges for the Garda Siochana during Commissioner Culligan's term in office."