Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, and its role, are important to policing in Ireland. Confidence in the Garda Síochána is absolutely fundamental to support for the police force in the detection and successful prosecution of crime. The importance of this body is highlighted by the figures which have emerged on the number of complaints it received between May 2007 and the end of last year. Out of 4,746 complaints, 374 matters were referred by the Garda Commissioner, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, to the ombudsman commission. These have not all been substantiated but it has led to those complaints being dealt with by the ombudsman commission and a number of cases resulted in prosecution. There were 37 files sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions and 25 cases were subject to disciplinary action, in line with the Garda Síochána disciplinary regulations 2007.

The role of this body is very important. It is also important that those who serve on the force have the requisite experience and skills to deal with this area of activity, the range of complaints and the manner in which they are dealt with. There is no doubt that Dermot Gallagher has extraordinary experience as a civil servant at the highest levels. Like Carmel Foley and Conor Brady, he will bring to the task the necessary skill and will complement other board members. It is also good that the terms and conditions of his employment have been modified to reflect concerns regarding remuneration etc.

While I have no objection to the appointment, it seems like an inside job. Transparency and openness in appointments to State bodies and boards are necessary. This is not to detract from the qualifications, experience and merit that have seen Dermot Gallagher appointed to this important body, but what of giving Oireachtas committees, the Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights in this instance, the opportunity to meet designated appointees? Mr. Gallagher would acquit himself admirably, but openness and transparency in such appointments would be important. Mr. Gallagher is an impressive civil servant who will contribute to the body's work admirably. Not only will I not raise any objections, I have no hesitation in supporting the motion.