Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy stated, a considerable amount of analysis has been done at this stage. It is important to act now to bring about change and the Government has taken action to address the issues the Deputy outlined. A commission of investigation was established on foot of the Guerin report and will be led by Mr. Justice Kevin O'Higgins. We have also established the Fennelly commission, which is examining aspects of the behaviour of members of An Garda Síochána. These commissions will provide further information. It is very important that we also get on with introducing change and reform. We have established an independent police authority and appointed a Garda Commissioner through a new and independent process. We are amending the legislation governing the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission to give it greater powers to initiate investigations. I hope Second Stage of that Bill will conclude next week. The new Garda Commissioner is committed to change in the force.

The concerns have been well analysed, including in the Garda Inspectorate's report. The Deputy is correct that serious issues arise and the inspectorate's report is clear on that matter. A series of actions are being taken to address these issues. This process cannot be completed overnight but many processes are in place that are making a difference in respect of the points the Deputy outlined.

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