Courts / Westmeath / Report

"Whistleblower" said he was going to "take down" garda commissioner

Date
2019-10-22

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Athlone

Summary

During the Disclosures Tribunal, Garda Nicholas Keogh testified that he had planned to "take down" Garda Commissioner Nóirín O'Sullivan and launch an "all‑out attack" on Garda management. He alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, had an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned an estimated €2,500 a week. Keogh claimed that after making a protected disclosure in 2014, he was subjected to a cover‑up and pressure from Garda management. He described meetings with TDs Clare Daly and Mick Wallace, noting Daly's reassurance that they would eventually bring the matter to light. Keogh also recounted interactions with Detective Superintendent Declan Mulcahy and welfare officer Mick Quinn, highlighting concerns about his drinking and health. Throughout the hearing, Keogh maintained that his intent was to target a specific group within the Gardaí, not all officers, and that his statements were made in a state of both determination and intoxication.