John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

I would go some way towards supporting the amendment but whether members of other police forces should become full members of the Garda is another matter. Secondment should be welcomed. The Army has a tradition of participating in command and staff courses in other jurisdictions such as the US and the UK and that has resulted in enhanced expertise and performance. The Garda has similar arrangements with other police forces and co-operation is exercised through international agencies such as Interpol. I question whether members of other forces should become full members of the Garda.

The issue relating to members of the PSNI is dealt with in the Third Schedule, which states a programme shall be introduced to facilitate members of the police force of Northern Ireland being placed in the Garda Síochána and vice versa. However, it is questionable whether the appointment of members of other police forces should be formalised in law. Nevertheless, the thrust of the argument is reasonable and, perhaps, the Minister will consider it.