“The Department [of Justice] does not comment on security matters.”
– Department of Justice spokesperson speaking to RTÉ News on 14th November 2006, in response to comments made by Muslim cleric Omar Bakri where he called for an attack on Shannon Airport. (link – Realplayer file)
“I have been authoritatively advised that it is my legal right and constitutional duty to make public information which is given to me in my role as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform by the Garda SÃochána acting as one of the intelligence services of the State when, in my judgment, the public interest so requires. My legal authority for disclosing information in such circumstances is clearly set out in section 4 of the Official Secrets Act 1963.”
– Minister for Justice Michael McDowell, speaking in Dáil Éireann on the 13th of December 2005, defending his decision to leak information to The Irish Independent newspaper. Mr. McDowell stated that it was his constitutional duty as Minister to report publicly on issues of national security. (link)