Fine Gael TD, Mr Alan Shatter this afternoon questioned the reliance on ‘supergrass evidence’ following outcome of the Paul Ward appeal.
"The outcome of the Paul Ward appeal today illustrates the folly of the Garda Siochana and our prosecution services principally relying on ‘supergrass’ evidence in major criminal prosecutions where it is acknowledged that the ‘supergrass’ is an inveterate liar and totally unreliable," he said.
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Mr Shatter said the outcome of such criminal proceedings showed how important it was to ensure that "no matter how horrendous the crime, and no matter how great the pressures under which they operate, the Garda Siochana must at all times fully and properly abide by the correct procedures when questioning suspects and must accurately and comprehensively document events and alleged admissions".
The Fine Gael TD said that, in the context of today’s ruling, careful consideration must also be given to the workings of the Witness Protection Programme.
"It should be put on a statutory basis, circumscribed by provisions which ensure, in so far as is possible, that the benefits available to a potential witness under the programme are not perceived as inducements to lie in Court and cannot, of themselves, undermine criminal prosecutions brought or taken," he said.
