THE Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) have confirmed that they are launching a formal investigation into alleged over-claiming of expenses by former Donegal County Councillor Brian Ó Domhnaill, who is now a senator.
SIPO decided on this course of action after documents relating to the expanse claims were forwarded anonymously to Donegal County Council.
The decision to conduct a formal investigation was taken by SIPO officer Paddy Walsh who conducted the initial informal investigation into the overclaiming allegations.
Mr Walsh has officially sent his findings to his senior officers at the commission and recommended a formal investigation be carried out.
On November 12 he officially recommended that a full, formal investigation be carried out.
A number of senior Donegal County Council officials including County Manager Seamus Neely have been made aware of the formal hearing.
SIPO Secretary David Waddell has contacted officials by letter to inform them of the investigation.
The hearing will be held at the SIPO’s Leeson Street offices when a date is set.
Senator Ó Domhnaill has previously claimed that he is the victim of a political smear campaign.
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