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An internal investigation in the city and county of Limerick into allegations of financial fraud by whistleblowers has led to a criminal investigation by the Gardaí, it has emerged.
The claims were made by a whistleblower in a protected disclosure through an attorney.
It is alleged that substantial funds were used to pay for personal property of at least one person.
The council is examining whether others benefited in kind or whether someone else was aware of the alleged fraud.
Gardaí has confirmed that the Council referred the matter to them and that a criminal investigation is under way.
After news of the internal local authority investigation into the allegations was reported last Thursday, the council emailed an update to elected councilors and some officials on Friday.
That email confirms that, “in addition to recent media reports of allegations of fraud in Limerick City and County,” a detailed investigative process was conducted “over the past nine months.”
“The case has now been referred to the Gardaí,” he says.
He added that “a staff member has been fired.”
The email goes on to state that the Board executive “can confirm that the Chairman of the Audit Committee was kept fully informed about the progress of the investigation, and is satisfied that the Board, at all stages, acted appropriately in dealing with with this matter.
“The executive can also confirm that the Local Government Auditor was fully informed about the progress of the investigation.
“As the case has already been referred to the gardaí, the City Council will not comment further.”
The Council’s internal investigation involves an audit of its accounts dating back several years.
A Garda spokesperson said: “The Gardaí has received a report from the city and the Limerick County Council regarding the allegations of fraud.
“Gardaí is in the early stages of this investigation and no further information is available.”
The sources said the accusations concern a “substantial” amount of money and relate to alleged illegal activity dating back at least “ten years.”
Meanwhile, a source from the Council said the matter was “a live internal investigation.”
“They are (serious) accusations and must be investigated,” they added.
A Council spokesperson responded: “The City and County of Limerick do not comment on individual HR issues.”
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