James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is undeniable that there is a deep-rooted problem within the Garda Síochána and the way in which whistleblowers within the force were treated was deplorable. The attitude shown towards people working tirelessly trying to expose the truth has been, to borrow a word from the former Garda Commissioner, disgusting. From the outset I outline my appreciation for Sergeant Maurice McCabe, former Garda John Wilson and the many other whistleblowers out there. They have demonstrated courage and a willingness to put their jobs and reputations on the line, which is something we can only hope to match.

A key development will be the establishment for the first time of an independent Garda authority, which will undoubtedly be the most significant change in the oversight of the Garda Síochána since the foundation of the State. I want to see the independent Garda authority as a leading light of reform within the force and I would like to see the necessary legislative proposals brought forward this year so the authority can be in place as soon as possible. One of the authority's roles should be to have an involvement in the process of appointing the most senior members of An Garda Síochána. There are comparable bodies such as the policing authorities in the North or Scotland, which have an important role in single police appointments. The next Garda Commissioner must not be a political appointment but rather the best person for the job. It is all very well setting up a Garda authority and having an inquiry but the change must come from within. In order to start the process we need a Garda Commissioner who has not yet been tainted.

It is premature to make a decision now, as we must discuss the role of the Garda authority, which I hope will bring about the reforms requested by this Bill and more. I look forward to the forthcoming introduction of the independent Garda authority, and there is no doubt that the Garda structure must be reformed. Nevertheless, we must not make any hasty decisions, as we know what such decisions brought in the past. This is a deep-rooted issue which does not have a quick fix. I congratulate the new Minister and wish her well in her new portfolio. She has done a good job to date and she is very thorough. I have no doubt she has the respect of the nation.

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