Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 30: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to claims made by the president of the Garda Representative Association that insidious bullying is rife within the Garda Síochána; if steps are being taken to establish the extent of this problem within the Garda and to ensure that steps are taken to stamp it out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16121/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I have been advised by the Garda authorities that there is no evidence to support the claims made by the president of the Garda Representative Association.

I am further advised that the Garda Síochána has a comprehensive policy in place to deal with issues relating to equality, bullying, harassment and sexual harassment supported by a well defined and robust investigative and grievance procedure. Details of the policy may be found on the Garda website, www.garda.ie.

The policy is subject to periodic review. In this regard, the Commissioner has directed the establishment of a working group to carry out such a review. The group will be chaired by a senior officer and will have representation from all Garda associations.