Madam, - I refer to your publication of June 3rd, which has just come to my attention, and your report headed "Minister writes to senior gardaí for reactions to tribunal report".
This is factually incorrect and gives readers a misleading impression in relation to the circumstances of my retirement from An Garda Síochána on September 1st, 2004.
This report has been the source of much upset.
I planned my retirement from An Garda Síochána. I did not receive any letter from the Minister for Justice as stated by you, nor did I have any communication with the Minister.
I notified the Commissioner of my intention to retire, and I had already completed the pre-retirement course in early 2003 as part of the process of my retirement from An Garda Síochána after over 32 years service.
I do hope that you will correct this inaccuracy at an early date. - Yours, etc,
DENIS FITZPATRICK, Letterkenny, Co Donegal.
The inaccuracy is acknowledged and regretted. - Ed., IT