Seanad debates
Tuesday, 8 April 2003
Garda Síochána (Police Co-Operation) Bill 2003: Second Stage.
The secondment of staff for a period of up to three years is welcome. The gardaí who will operate within Northern Ireland will be accountable to the Chief Constable of the PSNI and the converse will apply within this jurisdiction. They will also be investigated for breaches of discipline under the current regulations within each of the police forces, but, ultimately, will be accountable to the Chief Constable or the Garda Commissioner. It is important to have proper screening of those offering to take part in interchanges and exchanges. Any major breach of discipline could give rise to certain political consequences. Most of us who visit the North regularly would be conscious that Nationalists, in particular, would be tarnished in the event of any major scandal. I am sure initial precautionary steps will be taken to ensure that persons of good repute are involved in the exchanges.
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