Mr Justice Clarke urges review of Garda Síochána Act 2005

A report published in part by Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald recommends a series of measures to change the way investigations under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 take place after the death of Sergeant Michael Galvin.

Mr Justice Clarke undertook an inquiry after Mr Galvin took his own life at Ballyshannon Garda Station last May.

Mr Galvin had been the subject of a Gsoc investigation into Garda interaction with a woman who died as a result of a road traffic incident on 1 January 2015.

The first part of Mr Justice Clarke’s report recommends a review of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to address issues related to the scope of inquiries under section 109.

It also makes recommendations related to practices and procedures by Gsoc concerning how investigations are designated as criminal or disciplinary investigations and the conduct of those investigations.

Ms Fitzgerald said the legislative recommendations will be carefully examined to see what changes are necessary and appropriate.

Only part of the report has been published, as the Department of Justice says there are legal issues around the publication of the full report, including possible prejudice to pending criminal proceedings.

Ms Fitzgerald said: “Sergeant Galvin’s death was a tragedy for his wife and family, for his Garda colleagues and for his community. This week I again met Mrs. Galvin, along with her family and solicitor. I know that no words of mine can heal the hurt that so many feel at his loss.”

She will not make further comment until the remainder of the report can be published.