Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect of Deputy Adams's point of view, the proposition for the setting up of a root and branch analysis of the future of the Garda came from the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality at Cabinet. As the Deputy knows, the Cabinet is the body which makes the ultimate decisions in respect of all Cabinet committees. That is why it was one of the many discussions that took place at Cabinet and the decision was to have a root and branch analysis of the future of policing, the structure, role and responsibility of An Garda Síochána and so on. The decision involved the Oireachtas which is the reason Opposition spokespersons and leaders, including Deputy Adams, will have their say. When the Attorney General advises publication of the second Fennelly report, they will be given copies and will be able to take the report into account. This is to ensure that we, as an Oireachtas, get the future structure, role, responsibility and work of An Garda Síochána right and citizens can have confidence and trust in the body.

That is not to say that this is a whole new body of work. As I pointed out to Deputy Howlin, the recommendations of the independent inspectorate are now being implemented. The independent Policing Authority, with which Deputy Howlin had a very close association when it was being set up, came into effect last year under the supervision of its chairperson, Josephine Feehily, who is doing a first class job in its independence and oversight. The Tánaiste is not averse to giving the authority extra powers and she will take advice from Members on that matter.

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