Seanad debates

Tuesday, 8 April 2003

Garda Síochána (Police Co-Operation) Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

The Bill further strengthens the relationship between the two police forces. It will provide extended opportunities for police officers in both services, enhance the safety of all the people of Ireland and improve the level of cross-community confidence in the impartiality of the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland. Senator Terry said she would not like to see the Bill come into effect until the Government had proceeded to appoint a Garda ombudsman. As Members of the House will know, the Government is committed to the establishment of a Garda inspectorate to deal with complaints against the Garda Síochána. Work on the preparation of a general scheme of a Bill to provide for this is well advanced and the Minister intends to bring this to Government in the very near future, with a view to publication shortly. This should not be taken as a criticism of the existing Garda Complaints Board, which can only operate under existing law and which has itself been a strong advocate of change. Rather, it is a recognition of a public need for reassurance that there is independent oversight of the exercise of the extensive powers given to the Garda Síochána.

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