Tribunal completes hearings in relation to garda whistleblower

The Charleton tribunal has completed hearings examining circumstances surrounding garda whistleblower Keith Harrison and has invited legal submissions on the evidence heard during the current module. Justice Peter Charleton outlined topics he expects counsel to address in their written submissions. Over the preceding month, the tribunal examined evidence of contacts between gardaí and the HSE and Tusla relating to Garda Harrison. Sergeant Paul Wallace testified that he conducted a security assessment at Garda Harrison's home in October 2013 following reported threats. The sergeant said Garda Harrison indicated his partner had sought a safety order against him and made a statement to gardaí. Detective Inspector Patrick O'Donnell outlined information received regarding threats, whilst Superintendent Mary Murray confirmed she was appointed to conduct disciplinary and criminal inquiries in February 2014. Supt Murray stated she learned in May 2014 through media reports that Garda Harrison had made a protected disclosure to the garda confidential recipient and subsequently suspended her investigations. The tribunal continues.