Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 155: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his view on the new code of discipline and whistleblowers regulations in view of the conclusion and remarks of the Morris Tribunal. [36468/08]

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

I am satisfied that the Garda Síochána Discipline Regulations which were enacted in 2007 are working well. The regulations, along with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act take into account the findings of the earlier reports of the Morris tribunal. The system of discipline in the Garda Síochána is fairer, more efficient and more effective as a result. I will, of course, in consultation with the Garda Commissioner, consider the recommendations contained in the most recent reports of the Tribunal as part of a planned review of the discipline regulations.

The Garda Síochána Confidential Reporting of Corruption or Malpractice Regulations were inspired by the recommendations contained in the Tribunal's third report, but go beyond the Tribunal's recommendations in providing: for an external party independent of the Force as well as internal parties to whom a whistleblower may turn; that civilian employees as well as sworn members can make confidential reports; for the Garda Ombudsman Commission to be kept fully informed of all investigations into confidential reports of corruption and malpractice; and for the Garda Inspectorate to be kept informed of reports relevant to its remit. Two key aspects of the regulations are that they require the whistleblower to make a complete disclosure of all facts in their possession and that they identify themselves to the confidential recipient so that, if necessary, and subject to strict conditions, their identity can be disclosed to a court or the Garda Commissioner or the Minister.