Patricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

While the Bill is not perfect, we see some of the measures outlined as a step in the right direction. I will speak on these measures and outline the reality. Sinn Féin welcomes giving clear effective oversight for accountability in the upper ranks of An Garda Síochána. There cannot be said to be justice without checks, balances and, if needed, the right to appeal to a higher authority. The restructuring of the Garda ombudsman into something with teeth is long overdue. As with most things, the proof is in the pudding. A mechanism by which ordinary citizens can make a formal complaint is vital for those who have been mistreated or who have suffered injustice at the hands of the force. I sincerely hope the new office of the police ombudsman will enjoy the full co-operation of An Garda Síochána and be sufficiently staffed.

I also hope the Government plans will effectively tackle chronic understaffing and retaining gardaí in rural areas such as south Kildare. We have a big problem there. The Bill will allow gardaí to get back to the front-line duties they want to undertake and for which they originally signed up. I have never met gardaí who complained about not spending enough time behind a desk doing paperwork. I will take this opportunity to commend the men and women of An Garda Síochána, including those behind the desks, who keep us safe.

Recently I was made aware of ongoing work by units in County Kildare related to combating organised criminal activity. All of this work must be commended. I call on the Minister to engage with trade unions immediately to ensure the voice of civilian staff is heard with regard to the Bill. We must look after them. The Government should not unilaterally impose these measures after failing to consult the affected unions prior to the publication of the Bill.

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