Callinan 'horrified' by Smithwick findings
Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan has said he is horrified that a collusion inquiry has found that a terrorist mole in the ranks of the force gave the IRA a tip-off that led to the ambush and murder of two RUC officers.
Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Bob Buchanan were gunned down on March 20 1989 near the border in south Armagh, shortly after a meeting with gardai in Dundalk, Co Louth.
Commissioner Callinan said the Smithwick tribunal had identified a betrayal from within the force.
“It’s a source of great disappointment that no-one has been made amenable to date for their cowardly murders,” Mr Callinan said.
“These were colleagues of ours who were travelling to Dundalk garda station to take part in discussions with our colleagues in relation to very serious policing and security matters.
“I’m horrified that any member of the An Garda Siochana would be involved in colluding with the IRA.
“I accept the conclusions arrived at by the chairman of the tribunal.
“To think that any member of my force would engage with the IRA at any level is beyond comprehension.
“And to betray both themselves and my organisation in such a fashion is beyond me.”
