Fórsa has met senior civil servants to discuss the scapegoating of civil servants in recent controversies. Fórsa general secretary Tom Geraghty wrote to them last December on foot of the Charleston report, which vindicated Tusla staff who had been pilloried in the media. He said that, unlike politicians, civil servants had been denied due process in this and other public controversies.

“The experience of Tusla staff proves, as if such proof was needed, that an allegation is not a fact. When faced with accusations, elected representatives have the opportunity to defend themselves in public. Civil servants don't enjoy the same luxury. As a result, the media – and even elected representatives themselves – have scapegoated people who are not permitted to respond. That is grossly unfair,” he said.

Tom said the ICTU Public Services Committee was increasingly alarmed at the scapegoating of civil and public servants during political controversies. He said public service employers should understand and share these concerns.