Inquiry on Martin Callinan resignation to recall witnesses

The inquiry into the resignation of former Garda commissioner Martin Callinan says it needs to reinterview some witnesses.

In a statement released this evening, the Fennelly Commission says an "issue has emerged" which requires further oral evidence from one or more witnesses.

It is understood the witness or witnesses concerned have been informed they will be recalled.

However, a spokeswoman for the commission said the recall is not because of a conflict of evidence.

The spokeswoman also said the commission hopes to distribute its interim report on Mr Callinan’s resignation by the end of the month.

The spokeswoman said “an issue emerged in the course of drafting the report which required clarification in the form of further oral evidence” which has caused a delay.

It has been reported that Taoiseach Enda Kenny has been recalled by Mr Justice Nial Fennelly to clarify conflicting evidence.

“The commission hopes to begin the process of circulating the draft to relevant parties before the end of this month,” the spokeswoman said.

“The decision to publish the report rests with the sponsoring Minister, the Taoiseach and the Commission has no control over that decision.”