Michael Conaghan (Dublin South Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

It has held special Dáil debates. The Minister was before the relevant committee for four hours. The Government established two inquiries led by competent, qualified, highly regarded specialists in their field.

As to the purpose of all this, it is to separate fact from fiction, to distinguish truth from hearsay. However, the Government review must go further. The Government must bring in legislation to establish a policing board. This is the only guarantee of a truly independent oversight mechanism and true transparency. I have written to the Minister in this regard. It is the only mechanism that will really underpin confidence and assuage public fears. Whether in regard to State security or personal freedom and safety, such an initiative will serve the public as well as the vast majority of gardaí, those men and women who put themselves in harm's way on our behalf, who face down gunmen, who walk lonely streets at night. It will also be in their best interests.

Regarding a policing board, the Northern Ireland Policing Board, to quote Nuala O'Loan, is an effective, efficient, impartial, representative watchdog, offering accountability regarding the police service. We must learn from Northern Ireland. If we consider the issue of policing during the Troubles, we can see how the board has resolved the issue and been able to rebuild very quickly and establish confidence in all of the communities of Northern Ireland. I call on the Minister to bring forward legislation for a policing board as a matter of urgency.

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