Written answers

Tuesday, 24 May 2016

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Operations

Photo of Jonathan O'BrienJonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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75. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to ensure that all ranks in An Garda Síochána are diligent in taking proper units, and that unit sergeants regularly monitor the performance of their unit members in this regard, as set out in the recommendations of the Commission of Investigation (Certain Matters relative to the Cavan/Monaghan Division of the Garda Síochána) (O’Higgins Report). [11383/16]

Photo of Frances FitzgeraldFrances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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Issues of supervision by Garda Sergeants and poor note taking by members were at the heart of a number of the Garda investigations which were considered by Mr Justice Kevin O'Higgins in his investigation which was carried out under the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004. Chapter 15 of the Commission's report contains recommendations, including recommendations to address these two matters.

My Department is examining the Report very closely in order to ensure that the failings it identifies are fully understood and resolved with a view to ensuring that we avoid a repetition of the type of difficulties outlined in the report. However, it is important to remember that the incidents at issue took place some time ago and there have been widespread reforms and improvements to Garda practices in the intervening years.

The new Garda training programme which is being rolled out to recruits since 2014 will significantly address the supervision and note taking weaknesses which Mr Justice O'Higgins found. Under the Trainee/Probationer Programmes in phase 2 of the training programme, the trainee Gardaí are allocated to stations with a permanently appointed supervisory Sergeant who is thoroughly familiar with their responsibilities. In addition, the new training provides for enhanced opportunities to equip the trainees in the full range of policing skills, including opportunities to solve authentic policing problems. In Phase 3 of the Programme, a module is specifically devoted to Crime and Incident Policing.

There are comprehensive procedures around the supervision of front-line Gardaí. The ranks of Garda Sergeant and Inspector have primary responsibility for Garda front line supervision, and their roles are set out clearly in the Garda Code. In a recent development a nominated supervisor is allocated to all matters under investigation.

The Deputy may be aware that I have asked the Garda Commissioner to examine the Report of the O'Higgins Commission and to indicate to me what further measures might be taken to prevent the type of difficulties outlined in it in relation to An Garda Síochána arising again and her proposals to respond to the recommendations which are related to the Garda service. I await the Garda Commissioner's response to the report which is likely to assist with the identification of further measures to ensure that our citizens can enjoy effective policing.

The Policing Authority received a copy of the report in the context of its statutory role in relation to oversight of An Garda Síochána and I understand that the Authority will be discussing the Report with the Commissioner at their meeting on Thursday next.

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