Gardai accuse state of political interference

Senior gardai have accused the government of political interference in Garda operational procedures after independent TD Finian McGrath revealed parts of a deal struck with Taoiseach Bertie Ahern for his Dublin North Central constituency.

Concessions revealed by McGrath in the Dail last week include extra community gardai in North Dublin - a deployment matter which is strictly under the control of the Garda Commissioner, Noel Conroy, according to senior gardai.

Senior Fianna Fail ...