The interim Garda Commissioner says the force needs to change its relationship with oversight bodies. Noirin O'Sullivan made the remarks in an address to the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) annual conference in Co. Kerry.

Earlier today the AGSI delegates unanimously backed a motion seeking better protections for whistleblowers.

The issue of Garda whistleblowers took centre stage this morning. The debate came in the wake of the recent controversies involving Sergeant Maurice McCabe and former Garda John Wilson.

Delegates gave unanimous support for more whistleblower protection

The AGSI Donegal branch wants the garda confidential reporting charter reviewed and revised to safeguard whistleblowers in the force.

There was a unanimous backing of the motion.

Sergeant Tony Lavery from Claremorris garda station says the whistleblowing controversy has done more reputational damage to the Garda Siochana than anything else since the foundation of the force.

Sergeant Antoinette Cunningham from the AGSI National Executive wants to see measures put in place to protect gardai from retaliation for whistleblowing.

However she says association does not believe GSOC should not be considered as the Confidential Recipient.

The interim Commissioner says management will do all it can to ensure the process works efficiently and effectively until new legislation is introduced.

Noirin O'Sullivan says she wants an effective working relationship with the Garda Ombudsman Commission and Garda Inspectorate.