Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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474. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason there is a significant delay in the Garda vetting process (details supplied); [17505/14]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current average processing time for vetting applications at the Garda Central Vetting Unit is now approximately 4 weeks from date of receipt.

In general, vetting applications are processed on a first-come, first served basis in chronological order from date of receipt. This is with a view to observing equity and fairness in respect of all vetting subjects. Processing times fluctuate upwards and downwards depending on seasonal demands and volumes received, and in a number of instances, it may be necessary to conduct enquiries with external Garda Stations and Agencies such as the Courts Service, Probation Service, etc. These enquiries are conducted for a multiplicity of reasons such as verification of identity; updating of incomplete records and establishing outcomes of investigations. In such instances processing times are significantly longer than the general average.

A vetting application on behalf of the individual referred to by the Deputy was received and is currently being processed.

The application will be returned to the Authorised Signatory in the Private Security Authority upon its completion.