Report 'Critical' of Justice Department
The top civil servant in the Department of Justice has decided to step down from his position.
Brian Purcell asked to be reassigned to another role following the publication of a hard-hitting report on the workings of the department.
Brian Purcell was catapulted into the public spotlight after it emerged that he visited the home of Martin Callinan on the eve of his announcement that he was stepping down as Garda Commissioner.
Two months ago, he was hauled before an Oireachtas Committee where he described the visit as "unusual" but refused to be drawn on what was said.
And today, he has asked to be reassigned to other duties within the public service - a move he believes is in the best interests of the justice department.
His decision to do so comes after a damning review of the inner workings of the department.
The report reveals serious management failures and recommends a comprehensive programme of change.
Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald has described its findings as "serious and hard hitting" but she believes reforms can be implemented quickly.
She says the Department "must become a 21st century organisation to meet 21st century challenges"
ENDS