Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I expect it will take place in the coming weeks. In that regard, let me assure the Deputy the selection of a new Garda Commissioner is a priority for me, as Minister for Justice and Equality, but also for all of my Government colleagues. It is, however, vital, and I invite the Deputy to agree with me, that we ensure the selection process put in place is one that will be capable of delivering the best possible candidate. The chair of the Policing Authority and I agree that the process must be approached in a careful and considered manner.

I am aware of the point the Deputy makes on the Commission on Future Policing in Ireland and the comments of the chair thereof. I again point out that the commission is not due to complete its work until September 2018. I am sure the Deputy will agree that it would not be in the public interest, or in the interests of An Garda Síochána, as an organisation or its members, to allow a state of uncertainty to surround the leadership of the national police service for such a lengthy period of time. I am pleased to say from my engagement with the chair of the commission, Ms Kathleen O'Toole, that I know she shares my concern that a careful and deliberative approach is taken in the recruitment process in order that the best possible candidate will be selected and my concern that the process should not be prolonged beyond a reasonable timeframe. I welcome the willingness on the part of the chair to bring the commission's wealth of experience and expertise to the process being undertaken by the Policing Authority and I share the Deputy's view that we should not allow an inordinate period of time to pass before filling this important position.

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