McCabe allegation discussed at meeting between gardai and lawyers before inquiry, tribunal hears

The Charleton tribunal heard evidence concerning discussions between gardai and lawyers about a decade-old indecent assault allegation against Sergeant Maurice McCabe in the days before the O'Higgins Commission of Inquiry began hearings in May 2015. The Director of Public Prosecutions had directed no prosecution in 2006, finding it unclear whether any crime had occurred. The tribunal is examining whether false allegations or other unjustified grounds were improperly used by Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan to challenge Sergeant McCabe's credibility. Evidence was heard from Ken Ruane, legal advisor to An Garda Siochana, and solicitor Annmarie Ryan regarding a 11 May 2015 meeting at which the allegation was discussed. Mr Ruane stated that an internal garda report had accepted Sergeant McCabe acted in good faith. Ms Ryan's notes indicated Chief Superintendent Fergus Healy raised the allegation, and that counsel subsequently advised the commissioner to challenge Sergeant McCabe's motivation. Tribunal counsel questioned whether the discussion represented an effort to portray Sergeant McCabe as embittered. The inquiry continues.