During a recent Dáil session, Labour TD Alan Kelly revealed that it was he who first informed the Minister for Justice about the involvement of undercover gardaí in supplying guns to Evan Fitzgerald, a young man who tragically took his own life at a Carlow shopping center. Kelly questioned why Garda Commissioner Drew Harris did not disclose this 'major issue' to Jim O'Callaghan.

Tánaiste Simon Harris stated that it was a matter between the Garda Commissioner and the Minister, supporting a call for a review by the Taoiseach. Kelly emphasized that under the An Garda Síochána Act, the Commissioner is obligated to inform the Minister about significant matters.

He expressed his concern that as a member of the Opposition, he had to personally contact the Minister to relay this information. Fitzgerald, from Kiltegan, Co Wicklow, had fired shots in a shopping center before his tragic death, while facing multiple charges related to firearms and explosives possession.

Kelly's actions prompted questions about why the Minister was not informed earlier and why the court was misled about the origin of the guns. Independent Senator Michael McDowell also raised concerns about the case in the Seanad, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability.

Mr. Harris extended his sympathies to Fitzgerald's family and acknowledged the shock in the local community. While he did not comment on the specifics of the case, he confirmed that the Minister for Justice had requested further information from the Garda Commissioner.

The Tánaiste echoed the Taoiseach's call for a review of the situation, emphasizing the importance of addressing any shortcomings in the handling of such cases.