An Garda Síochána has issued a detailed statement ahead of an RTÉ Investigates broadcast, requesting that the programme acknowledge receipt of approximately 90 extensive questions covering several years and touching on legally protected disclosures.

The organisation noted it was given one week to respond despite RTÉ working on the broadcast for a considerable period, and pointed out that promotional trailers aired before its formal response was received.

Addressing the upcoming broadcast, the Garda highlighted several key operational and procedural points:

• Fair Trial Rights: The force expressed concern that broadcasting allegations regarding active legal matters—specifically referencing the trial of Luke Rochford set for 23 November 2026—could prejudice proceedings and infringe upon constitutional rights to a fair trial. Garda Legal notified the DPP of relevant correspondence on 2 September 2026. • Protected Disclosures: The Garda emphasised its commitment to internal reporting channels, noting that the Protected Disclosures Unit (PDU) was transferred to the Governance and Accountability Section in January 2025 to strengthen oversight, with management upgraded to Inspector level alongside external training from Transparency International Ireland.

• Firearms & Equipment: In response to queries regarding equipment, the force confirmed that old holsters were replaced following a internal review, with new models featuring automatic locking systems rolled out following a formal tender. Regarding a 2023 gangland operation where a recovered shotgun was identified as property stolen from Garda custody in 2009, an internal criminal investigation remains in its final stages.

The Garda statement also recalled previous accountability actions, including Commissioner Drew Harris's apology to former Sergeant Maurice McCabe, the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Unit, and an independent review by Crowe into roads policing.

Concluding its response, An Garda Síochána urged the national broadcaster to ensure any broadcast remains balanced, evidence-based, and respectful of active legal proceedings, stressing that statutory limits on public commentary should not be misinterpreted as a reluctance to engage.