Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Recently I introduced a new statutory instrument in respect of disciplinary rules and performance rules in An Garda Síochána, and this sets out a new procedure. I certainly want to see any procedure expedited and dealt with as quickly as possible. Any person suspended from their employment deserves to have the allegation against them determined as quickly as possible. I note what Deputy Brabazon has said on the number of gardaí who are suspended for significant periods of time. Any employee is entitled to have an allegation against them determined promptly. The other side of it is that if serious allegations are made against gardaí, it puts the Commissioner in a very difficult position. If serious allegations are made against a teacher or many people in employment, they are put on what is referred to as gardening leave while the allegation is investigated and determined. I certainly want to see any allegation against a member of An Garda Síochána determined promptly and finalised so that if the person is acquitted, if I can use that word, of any allegation against them they are back to work. If they are not, however, there have to be consequences.