Donegal Garda Inspector denies forcing witness to make statement as Charelton Tribunal continues

A Donegal Garda Inspector has denied forcing a witness to make a statement against her partner, Garda whistelblower, Keith Harrison.
As the Charleton Tribunal continues, Inspector Goretti Sheridan faced cross-examination today.
In a statement made by Keith Harrsion’s partner, Marisa Simms on 6th October 2013, she outlined her relationship with the Garda whistleblower.
The statement was made tat Letterkenny Garda station to Inspector Sheridan and Sergeant Brigid McGowan.
Facing cross-examination today, Inspector Sheridan said: “I wouldn’t force Marisa Simms or anybody else to make a statement.”
Hugh Hartnett SC, representing Garda Harrison said Inspector Sheridan had set out as best she could to get a statement using the wiles of an investigating officer.
To which the Inspector replied saying, it was her job to talk to Ms Simms and ask if she wanted to make a statement.
Inspector Sheridan said that “very, very serious allegations” had been made about Garda Harrison by third parties – Ms Simms’ mother, sister, uncle and a cousin – who had already come forward to gardaí.
Mr Hartnett said the eight hour period over which the statement was made was an “exceptional length of time”.
Inspector Sheridan said Ms Simms was “alert and knew what she was doing”.
Inspector Sheridan said her “key concern” was the welfare of Ms Simms’ children.
On January 11, 2014, Ms Simms called to Letterkenny Garda station and withdrew her statement.