Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I have not even got to deal with the main elements of the Bill which are the inspectorate and the ombudsman. In section 31 the Minister appears to reverse the abolition of the dual mandate. It is perhaps sad that the Commissioner is required to establish a committee to liaise with the public to find out what they want. A local garda used always know what the public wanted.

I am delighted to see the inclusion of sections 41 and 42 which address the liability of members of the force. Very often members of the security forces have been left to paddle their own canoes when they have, rightly or wrongly, acted in the best interests of the State. I have seen people thrown to the wolves and left to defend their own corners. Having served with the United Nations, I welcome the recognition in the Bill of international duty. I found the gardaí stationed in Pyla and Nicosia in Cyprus to be excellent at all times.

I conclude by voicing my unease at the concept of having a Minister who directs a Commissioner who looks over one shoulder at the three-person ombudsman and over the other at the three-person inspectorate. It will be a little uncomfortable for a person who should operate without having to look anywhere.

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