Fintan Fanning was giving evidence at the trial of retired Supt Eamon O’Neill and four serving gardaí, Sgt Anne Marie Hassett, Sgt Michelle Leahy, Garda Tom McGlinchey and Garda Colm Geary. The four serving gardaí on trial have been on suspension for the past six years. Answering John Byrne, senior counsel for Garda McGlinchey, Mr Fanning agreed that when a garda is suspended on foot of an allegation, the garda is effectively “locked” out of the garda organisation. “It’s terrifying, you’re told you can no longer go near your garda station, and the stigma attached is horrendous,” said Mr Fanning. “It breaks your spirit, it breaks your heart, it breaks your values, you feel just worthless,” added Mr Fanning.

Source: Irish Examiner January 21, 2026 12:55 UTC