Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister for Justice and Equality is resolute in her view that the protection of children and vulnerable adults must remain a priority. She is also aware, however, of the necessity to provide a modern and efficient service. During the Government’s lifetime, staffing levels at the GCVU have increased by almost 100% and the average vetting application processing time has dropped by almost ten weeks in most cases. This has been achieved by the redeployment of staff from other Departments, resulting in a more efficient and effective use of existing resources and a substantially improved service to the public.

I acknowledge that the Deputy has raised a specific case.

I have undertaken to bring this particular case to the Minister as an example of a case which is taking substantially longer than it possibly should. There will always be some cases that for one reason or other take longer to consider. Each case must receive the attention it requires. The processing time, when considered in the context of the tasks involved, is found to be reasonable and allows An Garda Síochána to take measures to seek to ensure that the most vulnerable in society remain protected.

As already stated, I will undertake to pass on the Deputy's concerns to the Minister who will respond directly.

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