Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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297. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if there are two different ethics training programmes being conducted internally in An Garda Síochána for rank and file members and management, respectively; his views on whether this is appropriate in view of the apparent void between both that is outlined in the recent Garda Cultural Audit Report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23682/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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TheCode of Ethics was launched by the Policing Authority in conjunction with the Commissioner in January 2017. Embedding the Code of Ethics throughout An Garda Síochána is a commitment under the Policing Plan for 2018. As the Deputy will appreciate the provision of training on ethical service provision is key to fulfilling this commitment. In this regard, I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that Acorn Solutions was appointed following a tendering process to assist in the provision of appropriate training.Acorn Solutions designed and developed the Code of Ethics Workshop Programme in conjunction with a wide range of administrative and operational ranks and grades within the organisation and were supported by an advisory group of ethics experts within An Garda Síochána.

I am further informed that the workshops have been designed to examine the nine principles and standards of the Code of Ethics in the context of the specific experience of participants. The workshops are highly discursive and interaction based, and participants are invited to share their personal and professional experiences. As such, the workshops are divided into two cohorts, one which includes all ranks and grades up to Inspector and Assistant Principal, and another including ranks and grades from Superintendent and Principal Officer upwards. I understand that this approach is intended to ensure that experiences shared are relevant to the participants albeit that the same programme is being delivered to all personnel. As of the end of March 2017 some 3,300 personnel had received training.

In so far as the Cultural Audit of An Garda Síochána published earlier this month is concerned, I have discussed its findings and recommendations with the senior leadership team. They are, as advised in the report itself, taking a short period of time to consider the findings and recommendations with a view to bringing forward specific actions before the Autumn. It will be important that the findings inform the development of initiatives across the board in An Garda Síochána and I am assured that they will be taken into account in the design of further initiatives aimed at embedding the Code of Ethics in the organisation.