Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his very important question but I think he will agree with me it fades into insignificance when we consider the terrible events of last weekend and how they affected An Garda Síochána. Like the Deputy no doubt, I want to start these questions by extending my condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Garda Kevin Flatley who gave his life in the line of duty.

On that point and in answer to the Deputy's question, it is fair to say that a Commissioner, no matter who he or she is, can only be as good as the rank and file gardaí who serve under them. Nonetheless the Deputy's question is a valid and an important one. Section 26 of the new Act, that sets out the procedure for the appointment of a Garda Commissioner.

As the Deputy has indicated, the Commissioner, Mr. Harris, is retiring on 1 September. I have already started the process for the appointment of the new Garda Commissioner. I consulted with the relevant statutory bodies in advance of the post being advertised last Friday. As the Deputy will be aware, the closing date for applications is 29 May. After that, there will be interviews. I believe I will be in a position in mid-July to go to the Government with a proposal on the name of a person who will be appointed by the Government as Garda Commissioner. If that is achieved in July, as I expect it to be achieved, it will mean that the new Commissioner will commence his or her post from 1 September.

To answer the Deputy's question directly, we will be in a position to have a new Commissioner starting as leader of the force on 1 September next. It is an extremely important position. I know we are going to have many excellent candidates from within and without the force putting forward their names for the competition.

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