Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 was signed into law by the President in February 2024. Part 4 of the Act provides for the establishment of the new Policing and Community Safety Authority (PCSA), An tÚdarás Póilíneachta agus Sábháilteachta Pobail.

The establishment of the Authority is an important element of the broad overall suite of changes being delivered under the 2024 Act. When established, the Authority will consolidate and enhance the broad-ranging oversight functions of the existing Policing Authority and the expert inspection functions of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate into a new body. This is a key step toward a more cohesive and effective framework for the independent oversight of An Garda Síochána and to help us build stronger, safer communities.

I can inform the Deputy that the competition to recruit a Chief Executive Officer for the PCSA has concluded. Furthermore, the State Board competition for the Chair and ordinary members of the new Authority has recently closed and I understand the Public Appointments Service are currently processing applications.

Once recommendations from the Public Appointments Service are received and considered, I intend seeking Government approval for Authority appointments on a designate basis, in preparation for the commencement of the Act.