Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan has resigned in the wake of the Garda Whistleblower controversy.
It is understood he informed the Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter, of his resignation this morning. The Garda Press Office confirmed the surprise action.
In a statement issued this afternoon, Callinan said: "In the best interests of An Garda Síochána and my family, I have decided to retire."
"I felt that recent developments were proving to be a distraction from the important work that is carried out by An Garda Síochána on a daily basis for the citizens of the State in an independent and impartial manner."
Callinan has been at the centre of the controversy in recent weeks after he said "Frankly, I find it quite disgusting" in reference to the activities of whistleblowers John Wilson and Maurice McCabe.
Last week, Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar called for Callinan to withdraw his remarks, causing friction within the Government.
An "informal" meeting took place yesterday between Varadkar and Alan Shatter at the request of the Taoiseach, who also met Minister Varadkar himself.
Callinan was also at the centre of the controversy surrounding the handling of penalty points.
The news broke before this morning's Cabinet meeting, which was expected to discuss the ongoing issue.
It is expected the Assistant Commissioner, Noreen O'Sullivan, will take over Callinan's duties until a successor is appointed.
Source-Irish News
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