Áine Collins (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Ross for bring this Bill before the House. However, it appears to me that it is premature and may be irrelevant because there is general agreement in this House that a Garda authority should be established. The key functions proposed for the new independent Garda authority would address all of the issues raised in this Bill. Public attitude surveys have consistently found high levels of satisfaction in the Garda among the general public but, as has been noted in submissions supporting the establishment of the Garda authority, recent events have highlighted the need to protect the credibility of the force. The importance of open and transparent oversight and accountability in achieving this aim cannot be overstated. The Northern Ireland Policing Board is regularly cited as a model that could form the basis for a Garda authority in this jurisdiction. One of the primary functions of the board is to appoint and, if necessary, dismiss the Chief Constable of the PSNI and specified senior officers. If we are to establish an authority in this jurisdiction it is reasonable to assume that the power to appoint or dismiss the Garda Commissioner and other senior gardaí should be the prerogative of the independent authority.

The Labour Party has already published a paper drafted by Deputy Anne Ferris in her role as Vice-Chairman of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality that outlines the powers and responsibilities such an authority might possess. The proposal also recommends the establishment of an implementation committee to review current Garda structures and make early recommendations to the Minister regarding the establishment of a new Garda authority. There is consensus on the objective to be achieved but detailed elements of the reforms are subject to negotiations between Fine Gael and the Labour Party. Among the key issues that will need to be addressed are the appointment of a Garda Commissioner and certain senior officers through open competition; approval of promotions of senior gardaí; and holding the Garda Commissioner to account.

While the Bill before us focuses on the Garda, it also proposes to replace or amend existing structures in the public service in respect of other appointments at senior level. While all structures should be kept under review, the case has not been made that existing structures are unfit for purpose. The proposed structure could in fact lead to a more politicised system of appointments at the most senior level in public service organisations rather than allowing a candidate to be selected on merit. All of the sections of the proposed Bill are being considered in the context of legislation on an independent Garda authority. In this context, the general theme of the Bill is irrelevant because it is superseded by the Government's more comprehensive approach.

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