Written answers

Tuesday, 16 June 2020

Department of Justice and Equality

Private Security Authority

Photo of Jackie CahillJackie Cahill (Tipperary, Fianna Fail)
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330. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will extend the licence of electronic alarm installers which are issued by the Private Security Authority in cases in which they have expired during the Covid-19 lockdown (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10750/20]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will appreciate, the Private Security Authority, established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, as amended, is responsible for the licensing and regulation of the private security industry in the State. The PSA is a statutory body, under the aegis of my Department, which is independent in the exercise of its functions.

I am informed that on 16 March 2020 and in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the PSA announced the suspension of certification audits. The initial period of suspension was until the end of April 2020 but this was further extended to the end of May 2020 and subsequently, for certain sectors, including electronic alarm installers, to the end of July 2020.  I understand that this further suspension will allow contractors to concentrate on returning to work as the public health restrictions which have been in place to deal with the pandemic are eased.

I am advised by the PSA that the licence and certification cycle do not always coincide and that therefore an audit is not always required when renewing a licence.

I am informed by the PSA that on 16 March 2020 it advised contractors of revised requirements for renewing licences.  These included the introduction of a new instalment arrangement for licence fees for contractors who were experiencing cash flow difficulties.  Contractors were also informed that certification was not required to renew a licence.  I understand that these measures remain in place.

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