Sinn Féin TD Mary Lou McDonald has said the Garda Commissioner needs to resign and the government must act to restore public confidence in An Garda Síochána.
Speaking ahead of a Sinn Féin strategy conference in Ballyfermott this morning, the Sinn Féin deputy leader said:
“We are in the throes of a crisis of public confidence in respect of An Garda Síochána.
“The extent of the damage which has been done to the Gardaí can’t be overestimated
“The fact is that the Garda Commissioner does not enjoy the confidence of the Dáil and more importantly she does not enjoy public confidence and she has to go.
“We have the bizarre situation where Fianna Fáil, despite saying they can’t express confidence in the commissioner are refusing to take the necessary action for fear it might trigger an election. That is deplorable and cynical politicking with an issue of such public importance.
“The commissioner has to go; the government needs to act to restore public confidence in An Garda Síochána.
“This issue is bigger than any political party. It is about the fundamental administration of justice. Rather than sitting on the sidelines we need to see action to ensure the commissioner is relieved of her duties.”