John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 1203: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of cases of bullying in his Department and in the Garda Síochána; if subsequent investigations can confirm the bullying; the results and outcomes of these investigations; if persons who made the allegations are still in employment in the same area of work; the number who are left; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2390/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The policy for dealing with bullying in the Civil Service is set out in the revised policy document entitled, A Positive Working Environment: an Anti-Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Bullying Policy for the Civil Service. This policy was circulated to all staff in my Department in August 2005 prior to the new code becoming effective on 1 September 2005.

Since 2000, my Department's personnel division has dealt with ten cases formally referred for investigation under the policy. The cases variously refer to allegations of harassment, sexual harassment and bullying. Central, however, to the operation of the policy is the principle that all allegations are dealt with confidentially. It is not therefore, possible to give further information as to do so would risk identifying the parties involved. All complaints are taken seriously and investigated fully in accordance with the guidelines set down in the policy.

In regard to the Garda Síochána, it has not been possible to collate this information in the time available. I will, however, arrange for the information to be forwarded directly to the Deputy in the next few days.