Donegal County Councillors have failed to unite in opinion over the appointment of Drew Harris as the new Garda Commissioner.
Independent Cllr Micheal Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig today called on the council to seek the cancellation of the new chief’s role as Commissioner of An Garda Siochana. The Glenties area Councillor expressed his concern over Mr Harris’ past career in the RUC, as Deputy Chief Constable of the PSNI and his close working relationship with British Security Service MI5.
“Harris worked hand in hand with the British state and there is no guarantee that he is not working for them at the minute,” Cllr Mac Giolla Easbuig said.
Cllr Mac Giolla Easbuig also raised questions over a lack of a complete PSNI investigation into alleged collusion between British crown forces and the Glenanne Gang – a loyalist terror group active in the 1970s.
Despite failing to reach a unanimous decision at today’s meeting, the Donegal County Council members agreed to write to the Minister for Justice and circulate a motion to all 26 local authorities calling for the cancellation of Mr Harris’ appointment.
In seconding the motion, Cllr Frank McBrearty Jnr said he supported the concerns ‘out of principle’.
“I believe that we should have somebody completely independent in the Garda force because of all the controversy and the continued controversies that are going on. And there are more to come,” said Cllr McBrearty.
Cllr McBrearty queried the independence of GSOC and said that he expected all party representatives in the council chamber to support the motion at hand.
Cllr McBrearty said: “The taxpayers and citizens of this country deserve better.”
“Heed my warning – change is coming,” he added.
Sinn Fein Cllr Jack Murray attempted to amend the motion with a suggested letter raising council concerns. However, the letter was dismissed as a statement, which Cllr Mac Giolla Easbuig was not in agreement with.
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