Courts / Cork / Report

Former sergeant tells tribunal he hated returning to work

Date
2022-05-19

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Fermoy

County
Cork

Summary

Retired Garda Sergeant Paul Barry testified at the Disclosures Tribunal in Dublin Castle regarding allegations of bullying and harassment by Superintendent Michael Comyns and targeting by Chief Superintendent Gerard Dillane. The tribunal is currently hearing evidence at the trial stage. Sgt Barry, formerly of Mitchelstown Garda Station, claimed he was forced to return to work in 2013 without a medical certificate due to financial pressure, as his absence was recorded as an 'ordinary injury' rather than a work-related illness, resulting in reduced wages. He stated he 'hated' returning to work and felt deliberately targeted to be punished financially. Sgt Barry alleged that Supt Comyns prevented the proper investigation of a child sexual assault allegation, which the DPP later directed not to prosecute in November 2015 due to lack of evidence. He further claimed that one alleged suspect was connected to senior gardaí, including Superintendent John Quilter and Chief Superintendent Anthony Quilter. Sgt Barry reported being unfit for duty from August 2012 to March 2013 due to work-related stress. His GP advised against his return without conditions, specifically avoiding contact with Supt Comyns. The tribunal, chaired by Mr Justice Sean Ryan, is examining these nine allegations, including claims of perverting the course of justice and compromised investigations.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Former sergeant tells tribunal he hated returning to work. Procedural stage: trial

When:

November 2015 Incident
August 6, 2012 Other
March 29, 2013 Other
February 2012 Incident
October 2, 2012 Other
2022-05-19 Publication

Why: He said he returned because he was on a reduced salary due to his "work-related illness" being recorded as an "ordinary injury" on Garda systems. CNI source report