The following is the text of the statement issued yesterday by the Garda Press Office:
The investigation report of Assistant Commissioner Carty into allegations made in the Donegal Division has been studied by the Garda Commissioner and other senior officers over a number of days. Assistant Commissioner Carty will now send the investigation file to the Director of Public Prosecutions for a direction.
The Commissioner has a concern that there may be a perception that public confidence may have been somewhat undermined by events in the Donegal Division. It is of the utmost importance that the unique interaction that exists between the Garda Siochana and the community is maintained and enhanced. It is also vital that performance of the members in this division be recognised and that morale of the Donegal gardai is in no way jeopardised.
In addition to actions already taken, the Commissioner has now directed the transfer of five members of the Garda Siochana to locations outside Donegal. These transfers are in both the public interest and the interests of the Garda Siochana and should not be seen as an indication of any wrongdoing by those directed on transfer.