Thomas Byrne (Meath East, Fianna Fail)
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81. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she has reviewed proposals in conjunction with An Garda Síochána to reform the training of new entrants to the Garda, including proposals for recruits to undertake training courses in other higher education institutions, such as universities or institutes of technology, and to share some courses, such as courses in forensics, with undergraduates from the general student population, rather than undertaking the full extent of their training in Templemore; and her views on such proposals. [19072/16]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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All Gardaí recruited since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014 are undertaking the new 2 year training programme which leads to a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Policing and is accredited by the University of Limerick. The programme is the outcome of a comprehensive review of foundation training for entrants to An Garda Síochána completed in 2009 and which encompassed reviews of training in a number of other jurisdictions, including the UK, other European states and the United States.

Phase 1, which lasts 32 weeks, is based in the Garda College and places a strong emphasis on problem-based learning where students learn in small groups through engagement with realistic policing scenarios. This methodology emphasises the development of ‘learning to learn’ skills, the development of reflective practice and supports the transition into learning in an operational policing environment.

Phase 2, which lasts for 65 weeks, is primarily based in Garda stations with appropriate training and development structures in place that include access to a trained tutor Garda and a permanently appointed supervisory Sergeant who is thoroughly familiar with their responsibilities under the training programme. During the course of their placements trainees move through three development stages from assisting his or her Garda tutor to taking the lead role and being assisted by the tutor, to finally the autonomous stage where they are deployed in regular policing activity and work independently within the operational unit. Over the course of the placement they also return to the Garda College for a number to weeks to further enhance their skills in specialist areas including sexual assault, intelligence-led policing, file preparation and court presentation and so on.

Phase 3 consists of seven weeks of preparation for final exams and assessments and I look forward to the first batch of new recruits graduating from the programme later this year. In these I share the Garda Commissioner's view that it is too early to conduct a formal evaluation of the Programme. I understand, however, from those leading the Programme that the feedback from managers and colleagues on the ground is positive.

I am advised by the Garda Commissioner that training and qualification in specialist functions takes place on a needs basis in collaboration with a range of policing and academic institutions in addition to internal expertise. Additional courses are available in collaboration with a number of third level colleges for all members of An Garda Síochána. This takes the form of Garda members of all ranks participating in the various courses with other students from a variety of backgrounds. The external third level training is provided in conjunction with a large volume of other training courses delivered through the Garda College around various specialist areas of policing. In addition An Garda Síochána also offers places on Garda-run courses to relevant external bodies and agencies.