The Minister for Justice has rejected as "outrageous and unfounded" suggestions that there is a cover-up involved in the investigation of alleged Garda misconduct in Co Donegal.

Mr O'Donoghue said there was "no question of anyone trying to cover up anything. We are trying to ensure due process." The Garda Commissioner has initiated an inquiry to investigate suspected breaches of discipline by a number of gardai in Donegal.

Fine Gael's justice spokesman, Mr Alan Shatter, said there was a "widespread perception" that no serious attempt was being made to come to terms with the serious allegations surrounding the investigation into the death of Mr Richard Barron in 1996.

The Fine Gael spokesman said there was a widespread perception that the Minister, his Department and those involved in the issue were engaged in covering up what occurred.

Mr O'Donoghue said he was seeking the advice of the Attorney General on whether he could proceed with any type of inquiry while civil and criminal proceedings were pending. He wanted to establish what happened in Donegal but he did not want to prejudice or jeopardise any of the proceedings already instituted, or which might be brought. One person, not a garda, had been arrested and charged.