Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The suggestion in the Deputy’s amendments is that GSOC is not currently able to recruit its own investigators, but this is in fact not the case. Section 67(4) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides that GSOC is independent in the performance of its functions. In its capacity as an independent statutory body, GSOC has recruited its own complement of experienced and independent investigators who are designated officers and who, under section 98 of the 2005 Act, have effectively the same powers as members of the Garda Síochána in the conduct of investigations.

It was recognised that, in order to conduct high quality investigations, GSOC would need expertise at the highest professional levels. These designated officers have been drawn from many different backgrounds. They include public servants, former senior police officers from Ireland and other jurisdictions and former police oversight personnel. In addition to Irish personnel, GSOC staff have been drawn from a variety of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Slovakia, South Africa and our near neighbour, the United Kingdom.

In addition, the three members of the Commission are vested with the powers of members of the Garda Síochána at or above the rank of inspector. GSOC has ensured that all staff receive appropriate training to ensure that they are capable of carrying out their functions.

I should also mention the increased funding of €1 million in GSOC's allocation for 2015.