Seanad debates

Wednesday, 26 March 2014

11:20 am

Photo of Mary WhiteMary White (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I join in the expressions of sympathy on the death of former Senator and Deputy Nicky McFadden. Nicky had the gift of personal connection with the person. During the time in this House when Nicky was in opposition and I was on the government side we would smile across the room at one another. If I may say so, she was a physically beautiful woman and had a beautiful soul. She is sadly missed by everybody who had the privilege of knowing her. Nicky's father, Brendan, died last Christmas. One can only imagine his pain at his daughter's suffering. We will always remember Nicky.

In the summer of 2005, we held lengthy sessions in this House on the Garda Síochána Bill. I am not a lawyer or barrister. However, I do have common sense. When a Member on the government side in this House I challenged former Minister, Michael McDowell, on the many complex legal terms used in that Bill. The most important issue for me was the establishment of a Garda authority. The Garda Síochána in Ireland is politicised.

I was amazed that a man of Michael McDowell's intellect could not resist holding onto the power of appointing the Garda Commissioner, Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners. I can remember asking him why he would not relinquish that power which has to be separate from the politicians. We now have another crisis at the core of our country.

I have to say also that the Fianna Fáil-PD Government did not bring in a separate Garda authority. Although I do not have a legal background, I knew in my heart and soul that this would continue. At the time, it reminded me of a Stasi relationship because it is very dangerous that politicians can appoint gardaí from the level of a superintendent up to a Garda Commissioner. It is totally wrong. The former Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland, Nuala O'Loan, was shocked recently when talking about the same issue. She could not believe it and said that in the North they have an independent policing commission.

I have to say that there were failures by my own party for not doing it. It is a critical issue. Senators should think about how dangerous it is that politicians have power and influence over senior Garda appointments.

I wish to congratulate the acting Garda Commissioner, Noirín O'Sullivan. It is a great day for Irish women and the first time in the history of the Garda Síochána that a woman has the leading position.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.