Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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83. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which best policing practices continue to be put in place to meet the threat of organised or other criminal activity; if other police forces throughout Europe or globally have identified the optimum in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17605/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Report of the Garda Inspectorate on Crime Investigation has provided a welcome analysis of An Garda Síochána's investigative processes.

As noted by the Inspectorate the recommendations made in the Report are intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána's investigative processes align with, and even exceed international practice.

Following the publication of the Inspectorate's Report, a Strategic Transformation Office was established at Garda Headquarters to coordinate the implementation of the reforms arising from the Inspectorate’s report.

The recommendations in the Report also form an important component in the overall justice reform programme which has been put in place in recent years. Implementation of this programme is being overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Justice Reform, chaired by An Taoiseach, and this Committee has taken on a role in overseeing delivery of the reforms recommended by the Inspectorate.

The implementation of these reforms is clearly supported by the significant investments which have been made in policing resources, under the framework of the Capital Plan 2016-2021, including €205 million for Garda technology and systems.

The Report rightly acknowledges the dedication and commitment of members of An Garda Síochána. An Garda Síochána day in day out has considerable success in bringing offenders to justice and keeping our communities safe.

I am satisfied with the progress being made. I am in ongoing contact with the Commissioner in relation to the wide range of issues arising from the Inspectorate report and expect to continue to receive regular updates on progress. There will also of course be a central role for the Policing Authority in overseeing the implementation of the reforms identified by the Inspectorate.