Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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84. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her views on the recent public disagreements between senior civilian staff in An Garda Síochána and the Garda Commissioner; the effect this may be having on morale; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24380/17]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware I have indicated my concern at the seriousness of the findings of the Interim Internal Audit Report in relation to the finances at the Garda College Templemore. While an interim report it paints a disturbing picture of the manner in which the College finances were run and, in short, finds that the financial controls in place there could not be stood over.

While, of course, there has to be accountability in relation to what went on at the College, the immediate priority has to be ensuring the problems identified in the audit are resolved. I have met with the Garda Commissioner, who is in law the Accounting Officer for the Garda vote, to discuss these matters and have been assured that the gravity of the issues raised has been recognised and that they are taking comprehensive steps to progress the recommendations in the Report. External governance expertise and auditors have been engaged. A Steering Committee, chaired by the Garda Síochána Chief Administrative Officer and including a representative from my Department, is overseeing the implementation of the recommendations. In addition, upon receipt of the report I referred it to the Policing Authority to oversee the implementation of the recommendations and to report back to me each quarter. I expect the Authority to submit its first report to me in July.

As you will be aware the Public Accounts Committee is examining the Commissioner in relation to the Interim Audit Report and intends to resume that examination in the coming weeks, and will report subsequently. Very particular responsibilities lie with Accounting Officers and you will appreciate that I must be careful not to interfere in any way with the work of that Committee. I can assure you that I will pay very careful attention to the proceedings at the Committee and, in particular, any report they may make. If action is required on my part as a result, I will not hesitate to take it.

I am aware of an issue which arose at the Committee in relation to the Commissioner's account of events and that of the person to whom you refer. I am also aware of reports that the person subsequently submitted material to the Committee. Obviously these are matters for the Committee to examine. I assume that the Commissioner will be given an opportunity to address any issues arising from the material provided to the Committee and that is at it should be.

I would make the general point that in any organisation there can be differences of opinion as to how best to proceed; what is vital, of course, is that any concerns which are raised are properly addressed. Ultimately it is a matter for the head of an organisation to decide on what action is appropriate and the head must, of course, be in a position to account for any decisions they take.