McEntee urges Connolly to release emails questioning vetting of former inmate
Helen McEntee, the Minister for Justice, has called on Catherine Connolly to disclose emails related to vetting a former convict admitted to Leinster House. Connolly, a deputy leader of Fine Gael, is facing scrutiny after it was revealed she signed in an individual who had previously been convicted of firearm offenses.
Accountability and Transparency Demanded
McEntee emphasized the importance of accountability for public representatives. She stated that the public should have access to all relevant information regarding this incident. The person in question had been found guilty by the Special Criminal Court for possession of firearms and spent over four years in prison.
After her release, this former Éirígí member was recruited by Connolly to work on a committee related to the Irish language. However, Connolly noted that this hiring occurred before the individual received a regular access pass, which was still under review for six months.
Key Questions Raised
- What are the content and details of the emails concerning the vetting process?
- What specific dates did Connolly sign the individual into Leinster House without Garda clearance?
McEntee questioned the appropriateness of Connolly’s actions, highlighting that a prospective presidential candidate signed a convicted criminal into the national parliament.
Financial Scrutiny of Connolly’s 2018 Trip to Syria
In addition to the vetting issue, McEntee demanded a complete breakdown of Connolly’s €3,700 trip to Syria in 2018. This trip was funded by taxpayers through the Parliamentary Activities Allowance.
During this trip, Connolly met with Fares al-Shehabi, a known supporter of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who is under sanctions by the European Union. McEntee pointed out that the electorate deserves transparency regarding the financing of such trips, especially when they involve engagements with individuals associated with a dictatorial regime.
