The Garda Commissioner Noirín O’Sullivan is set to face questions about the whistleblower controversy when she appears before the Oireachtas Justice Committee later.

The official agenda for the meeting is to discuss the priorities for the force in the coming years.

However, Opposition TDs are also expected to quiz the Commissioner about allegations of a smear campaign against whistleblowers in the force.

Committee chairperson, Sinn Féin’s Caoimhghín Ó’Caoláin, says it is a welcome opportunity to hear from the Commissioner.

He said: “It’s a hugely demanding post of responsibility and members will have the opportunity, and no doubt, will ask searching questions, that is what the exchange is all about.

“I have no doubt that the Commissioner is in no doubt about that and is well capable and clearly willing.

“I think it is important to become before the committee and to address these matters.”