John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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Question 337: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has carried out studies regarding the impact of immigration on the role of the Garda and the legal system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21771/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has not conducted any studies regarding the impact of immigration on the role of the Gardaí and the legal system nor are there plans to undertake such studies in the near future. The Deputy will be aware of the amendments made to the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 1988-2004 to facilitate the recruitment to An Garda Síochána of members from different ethnic communities living in Ireland. I am of the view that such recruitment is desirable in principle so that membership of the Force reflects as far as possible the composition of Irish society today.