Courts / Dublin / Report

Garda Commissioner denies claims she asked candidate about views on "left wing political extremism" in interview

Date
2015-04-29

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Primary locality
Tallaght

County
Dublin

Summary

The High Court heard that Garda Commissioner Nóirín O'Sullivan denies claims by Asst Commissioner John Fintan Fanning that she asked him about his views on 'left wing political extremism in Ireland' and left wing politicians during interviews for the position of Deputy Commissioner. Asst Commissioner Fanning initiated High Court action, alleging an 'unfair' competition for the post and claiming he was 'taken aback' and 'uncomfortable' at being asked such questions. He also claims Commissioner O'Sullivan should have declared a potential conflict of interest prior to the interviews and recused herself from them. The case is against the Public Appointments Service, Ireland and the Attorney General. Asst Commissioner Fanning seeks an injunction to restrain the PAS from taking further steps in appointing any persons as Deputy Commissioner pending the outcome of his case, and also seeks declarations that the procedures adopted for recruitment to that post infringed his constitutional rights, including to fair procedures and natural justice. The matter was adjourned for one week for mention only, to see if a date for the hearing of the injunction application can be fixed. Counsel for the respondents said they are prepared to give an undertaking not to appoint any persons as Deputy Commissioner until the injunction application is heard.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Garda Commissioner denies claims she asked candidate about views on "left wing political extremism" in interview. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When: