Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A Government meeting concluded a short time ago. For the information of the House, the Government received a very detailed briefing from the Tánaiste this morning on the recent revelations regarding the Garda handling of matters relating to mandatory alcohol testing and to fixed charge notices. We also noted the public explanation given by senior gardaí, including the Garda Commissioner, over recent days. There was a very strong consensus in that discussion this morning that these revelations have given rise to the most serious concerns not just among public representatives but among the people generally. It is a matter of grave importance to our country that the Government, the Oireachtas and members of the public have faith and trust in the members of An Garda Síochána to carry out their duties fairly and impartially and in accordance with the laws of the land. It is crucial that the public can believe the statistics and other information provided by An Garda Síochána. That is why we are here as public representatives and as the Government.

It is absolutely essential, in my view, that a process of reform is rigorously implemented in An Garda Síochána and be seen to be implemented, including through the close oversight of the independent Policing Authority. People are aware that the Government has introduced a range of important reforms to policing in this State in recent years, including the establishment of the Policing Authority, additional powers for the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, greater civilianisation, open recruitment and the provision of significant extra resources. The Garda Commissioner has also instituted a significant programme of internal organisation and reform, which is being overseen by the Policing Authority. However, I have to say that we continue to see a list of unacceptable revelations about the operations of An Garda Síochána, with these two issues being the very latest. The Government believes that the level of public concern is now so profound that it is time to conduct a thorough, comprehensive and independent root and branch review of An Garda Síochána.

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