Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I do not have a problem with the idea behind this proposal but I have some concerns about the wording. The Minister mentioned the Army reserve force but that is a very different type of organisation. I am concerned about the use of the word "volunteer" because it might be restrictive in this section.

Senator Jim Walsh referred to the need to examine best practice in other jurisdictions. The proposal needs to be worked through and its ramifications need to be examined. The section allows for the provision to come into play very quickly. Subsection (4) states:

The power to appoint persons under subsection (1) may be exercised not earlier than 12 months after the commencement of this section and then only if—

(a) the Garda Commissioner has submitted proposals to the Minister for the training of persons to be so appointed, and

(b) regulations have been made concerning their recruitment and training and prescribing the terms and conditions of their position.

Much greater consideration needs to be given to this. The Garda Síochána needs to be on board because there are issues to be dealt with about how members would relate to these volunteers. For example, section 14(3) states: "While on duty, a volunteer member has the powers, immunities, privileges and duties as a person appointed under section 13 to the rank of garda." The volunteers will have a very different role. I have concerns about the section but I do not oppose the provision of a reserve force in itself. The Minister may need to flesh out the proposal. Will the regulations be published?