Minister of state Finian McGrath’s climbdown on Sunday came after demands from Fine Gael ministers that he withdraw criticism of gardaí. In an interview in a Sunday newspaper, Mr McGrath said gardaí were carrying out unnecessary breathalyser check-points because they opposed controversial new drink-driving laws. Yesterday, a Government spokesperson and a spokesperson for the Independent Alliance both said they are not aware of anyone contacting Mr McGrath on Sunday asking him to withdraw his garda political policing comments. It is understood that Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan was adamant that Mr McGrath immediately withdraw the comments and made his views known. Mr McGrath and Mr Ross have enjoyed a close friendship over the years, but Alliance sources have made clearthat this issue has “driven a wedge between them, it’s bad”.

Source: Irish Examiner April 02, 2019 20:48 UTC