Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the delegates for coming. I have a few different points to make. Following on from Deputy Clare Daly's point about the fact that the inspectorate did not have statutory authority to oversee implementation of its recommendations, do the delegates know who in An Garda Síochána has been given responsibility to implement its reports? We have heard reports, but as we cannot be certain, the delegates might confirm who has been given that responsibility.

It is hardly a good system that the Commissioner can reject some of the inspectorate's recommendations and can take them on board as she sees fit. What do the delegates think about this?

On the issue of crime investigations, Mr. Toland said he has seen the same problems prevail for three years running. We would have presented the Minister with evidence from PULSE of the massaging of crime figures in the Athlone area a year ago. It seems there was nothing to stop the senior garda in that station from doing that. I have no evidence that this has been addressed. How does Mr. Toland think that should be managed? He said the Policing Authority will help in making sure that the inspectorate's recommendations are implemented. Do he honestly believe that the Policing Authority has the wherewithal to play that role? We would be very sceptical about Policing Authority's power in terms of its legislative power having regard to its resources. We would be very surprised if it will fill the role Mr. Toland might like it to fill.