asked the Minister for Justice the source and nature of any representations to or consultations with the Garda Commissioner in relation to recent and impending changes in the Special Detective Unit at Dublin Castle; their purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I assume that what the Deputy is referring to are representations or consultations originating from outside the Force, as changes in any branch of the Force would normally be the subject of consultation within the Force itself.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that there were no representations to or consultations with him, originating from outside the Force, in regard to recent changes in what is now officially designated as the Intelligence and Security Services. As far as the changes themselves are concerned, these are matters of internal Garda administration on which it is not the practice for Ministers for Justice to comment publicly.

Is it the case that an inspector placed in charge of the Special Detective Unit some months ago has been shifted elsewhere? Can the Minister indicate the reason for this and is he aware of the public concern that has arisen from it?

I am not aware of any public concern. Any deployment of members of the Garda is a matter for the Commissioner.

I can tell the Minister that there is public concern that an officer placed in charge of such a sensitive unit about three months ago should have been shifted in this way. This is something which the Government should have regard to in view of the importance of maintaining full confidence in security matters of this kind.

I am satisfied from the information I have available that there is no public concern.

Why was the change made after eight weeks?

I have already told the Deputy that it is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.