Judge asks for more time to complete Garda whistleblowers report

A former High Court judge examining the latest allegations made by Garda whistleblowers has asked for an extension of a week in which to complete his review.

Mr Justice Iarfhlaith O’Neill, a former judge of the High Court, was given six weeks in October by Tánaiste and Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to inquire into new allegations made by a number of Garda whistleblowers.

The report was due to be completed on Friday. However, a spokesman for the Tánaiste said today she had received a letter from Mr Justice O’Neill seeking extra time to complete it.

“He has indicated to the Tánaiste that he is confident that he will be in a position to submit his report not later than December 9th,” a Department of Justice spokesman said.

Orchestrated campaign

The judge is inquiring into allegations that there was an orchestrated campaign, directed by senior officers, to discredit whistleblower Sgt Maurice McCabe.

Ms Fitzgerald received the allegations in correspondence under the Protected Disclosures Act from two gardaí, but she was prevented by law from saying anything that might lead to their identification.

Following talks with the Attorney General, she asked the judge to examine the allegations and to recommend further action, if warranted or appropriate. He could recommend a full Commission of Investigation.

Under the Act, the Judge had authority to speak with all parties, though it is not clear if he met with either of the whistleblowers.