Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 109: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the discussions he has had with the Garda Ombudsman Commission regarding possible amendments to the legislation under which it operates; the principal amendments planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27034/08]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Discussions have been taking place for some time now between the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission and my Department regarding the Commission's proposals for amendments to be made to the Garda Síochána Act 2005, which, in the light of the Commission's operational experience to date, will contribute to greater effectiveness and efficiency in the Commission's operations.

The areas where amendments are contemplated are set out in detail in the Report made under section 80(2) of the Act. Two of the most significant changes concern the Commission's power to conduct preliminary enquiries and the power to exercise greater discretion about what constitutes an appropriate and proportional investigation into a complaint. The Report was launched by the Commission on 1 May, 2008 in conjunction with its second Annual Report, both of which have been laid before both houses of the Oireachtas.

As indicated by me in the course of an earlier reply, I hope to be in a position to obtain Government approval shortly for the drafting of a Bill which will amend the 2005 Act accordingly.