THE OIREACHTAS JUSTICE Committee has formally invited the Secretary General of the Department of Justice to appear before it, but has told him that it reserves the right to choose what it questions him on.

Brian Purcell had requested not to be questioned about the events surrounding the departure of former Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan, but the Justice Committee said in a statement that it would ask any questions within its remit, saying that it had sent a letter this morning.

“The letter will state that the Committee reserves the right to question him on matters of policy and administration within the Department, being matters which fall within its remit as specified in the Committee’s Orders of Reference.

“The meeting will in particular focus on the findings of the Guerin report, with the Committee keen to question Mr Purcell on the issues raised in relation to the administration of the Department.”

Purcell had been expected to appear before the committee next week, but with the Oireachtas adjourned to allow TDs and senators campaign for the European and local elections, Purcell will not appear until the week beginning 26 May.

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