Written answers

Tuesday, 15 November 2016

Department of Justice and Equality

Haddington Road Agreement Review

Photo of Jim O'CallaghanJim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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75. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the review of Garda pay and conditions that was to be completed by 1 June 2014 is still ongoing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34839/16]

Photo of Frances FitzgeraldFrances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Haddington Road Agreement provided for a review of An Garda Síochána with the following terms of reference:

To review and make recommendations on the use by An Garda Síochána of the resources available to it, with the objective of achieving and maintaining the highest levels of efficiency and effectiveness in its operation and administration. The review shall encompass all aspects of the operation and administration of the Garda Síochána including,the structure, organisation and staffing of the Garda Síochána;the deployment of members and civilian staff to relevant and appropriate roles;the remuneration and conditions of service of members of An Garda Síochána, including an evaluation of annualised hours/shift pay arrangements;the appropriate structures and mechanism for the future resolution of matters relating to pay, industrial relations and attendant matters.

The Review, as noted by the Deputy, was to be completed by 1 June 2014. However, its commencement was delayed due to differing views between the official side and the Garda Associations as to how it should be conducted. It was eventually decided, well into 2014, that it would be conducted in two parts with the Garda Inspectorate, having regard to its statutory role under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, undertaking a review of the structure, staffing and employment of members, and Mr Ray McGee, formerly of the Labour Court, undertaking the remaining elements concerning remuneration and condition and appropriate industrial relations mechanisms. The Inspectorate has completed its work and its report "Changing Policing in Ireland - Delivering a Visible, Accessible and Responsive Service" was published last December and is in the process of being implemented. The remaining part is nearing conclusion under Mr John Horgan, former Chair of the Labour Court, whom I appointed following the resignation of Mr McGee last May. I understand that Mr Horgan expects to conclude his work in early December and I look forward to receiving his report.

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