Written answers
Tuesday, 21 June 2016
Department of Justice and Equality
Commissions of Investigation
Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
90. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality when she received the O'Higgin's report from the commission of investigation into certain matters relative to the Cavan and Monaghan division of the Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11431/16]
Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source
I received the report of the O'Higgins Commission of Investigation on 25 April 2016. I published the report on 11 May 2016.
As the Deputy is aware, the report was the subject of a debate in the House on 25 and 26 May 2016. In the course of my contribution I outlined the reasons why publication was not possible before the date on which I did publish it.
As I have already informed the House, the Policing Authority is overseeing the Garda response to the O'Higgins Report. You will be aware of the framework which the Authority has put in place in this regard, including two public meetings. Matters relating to the treatment of victims, protected disclosures and culture were addressed at the meeting of 13 June. The meeting scheduled for 30 June is intended to focus in particular on governance, performance management and supervision issues.
In addition, I have asked the Garda Commissioner to examine the report and to indicate to me what further measures might be taken to try to prevent the type of difficulties outlined in it in relation to An Garda Síochána arising again. I am also seeking her proposals concerning the recommendations which it contains in relation to the Garda service. I am committed to overseeing further reforms which are necessary to avoid a recurrence of the type of incidents highlighted in the report.
I very much appreciate that the events outlined in the report have been traumatic for many people who have been affected by them. It would be an injustice to those who brought events to light in the public interest and those who have lived under the shadow of these events for a long time, if we do not take on board the lessons from these events. I hope they can take some reassurance from the fact that the examination of those events in this report will help serve to consolidate a programme of reform which will ensure we continue to have a Garda Síochána in which its members and the community it serves can take great pride.
No comments