Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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32. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether GSOC has been undermined, or strengthened, by the recent surveillance controversy; the action he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9675/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission was established under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to provide independent oversight of complaints made against members of the Garda Síochána. The Garda Ombudsman Commission has a hugely important role in ensuring that public confidence in the Garda Síochána is safeguarded.

The recent coverage in the media of reports of unlawful surveillance of the Ombudsman Commission has, of course, been a matter of concern. The members of the Ombudsman Commission and I separately appeared before the Joint Committee on Public Service Oversight and Petitions to address questions on this issue from Members of the Committee. In addition, the Government has appointed retired High Court Judge, John Cooke, to conduct an independent inquiry into the reports. The Terms of Reference require him to report on his findings within eight weeks and I look forward to his report.

Separately, some weeks ago I announced that I would be bringing to Cabinet a number of amendments to the Garda Síochána Act 2005 relating to the Ombudsman Commission. It was subsequently agreed at Cabinet that the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality would be asked to hold such hearings as it deems appropriate and necessary for the purpose of making any recommendations as to amendments it proposes be made to the 2005 Act. I look forward to receiving the Committee's recommendations.