An investigation into the possible leaking of information about Barry Cowen's drink-driving ban is being referred to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC).
Gardaí earlier launched a preliminary investigation, but this is now being referred to GSOC on the back of a complaint by Mr Cowen.
Last week, the Agriculture Minister apologised in the Dáil for the 2016 incident which he described as a "stupid, stupid mistake."
In an earlier statement, An Garda Síochána said it was conducting "a preliminary examination to ascertain if an investigation should be conducted into whether a third party had access to personal data held by the organisation in relation to an individual."
Mr Cowen also weighed in on the issue.
In a statement on Sunday he said: "The Sunday Times has today published an article referring to an incorrect Garda record dealing with the incident which occurred on 18th September 2016 despite the fact that my solicitors wrote to the newspaper in advance of publication.
"I did not evade, or attempt to evade, a Garda. Such an act would constitute a serious criminal offence and I was not charged with such an offence.
"On being informed of its existence I sought a copy of this incorrect record and am taking steps under the Data Protection Act to have it corrected.
"This incorrect Garda record can only have come into the possession of the newspaper through a criminal act.
"It is a criminal offence for a member of An Garda Síochána to disclose any information obtained in the course of his or her duties.
"I am informed that An Garda Síochána has commenced a criminal investigation into the source of this leak."
Following this, GSOC said: "As Minister Cowen's statement constitutes a complaint against a member or members of An Garda Síochána the Commissioner will be referring the matter to GSOC for its consideration."
Speaking to the Dáil last week, Minister Cowen said it was "not uncommon" for people of all ages to drive with either a provisional licence or learners' permit at the time.
He told deputies he wanted to "officially put on the record" the facts of the incident.
He confirmed he had consumed two drinks before attending the All Ireland Football Final in Dublin in 2016, before eating a light meal after the match.
While driving home to Offaly, he was stopped and breathalysed.
After being found to be over the legal alcohol limit, he was given a €200 fine and a three-month driving ban.
He held a learner drivers' permit at the time as his previous provisional licence had lapsed.
He said: "Before the recent and proper reforms of the system, it was not uncommon for people of all ages and level of experiences to drive with either a provisional or learners' permit. However, this was bad practice - and I clearly should have regularised my position much sooner."
After reports of previous parking and speeding fines, Minister Cowen said he examined his records and found the only additional, unreported event he was able to identify was "a failure to display a parking disc while parked in Tullamore 14 years ago".
