Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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663. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí within the Kildare division who successfully completed the protestor removal course in 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form; and the duration of this course. [51859/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, which includes Garda training. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.

I am however informed by the Garda authorities that no member from the Kildare Division completed a Protestor Removal Course in 2021 or to date in 2022.

I am further informed that the duration of the course is 5 days.

Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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664. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will list all previous examples of criminal provisions or Garda powers which were introduced in legislation after either being specifically opposed, or deemed unnecessary, by An Garda Síochána at the time of their introduction for the period 2011 to date in 2022; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51874/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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When introducing legislation, I and my officials consider the implications of the proposals and consult with other Departments, Agencies and stakeholders affected and will in most instances engage with An Garda Síochána (AGS).

The process of engagement and consultation ensures that the views of AGS, along with other stakeholders, including victims, are considered and reflected in legislation as far as is practicable.

The consultative process is a collaborative one taking into consideration the operational concerns of AGS, other stakeholders and Government policy. While AGS will from time to time express views on the effectiveness of proposals to introduce new criminal provisions or Garda powers, those views will be addressed through ongoing engagement and adaptation of the proposals. As a result, the question of such provisions being specifically opposed or deemed unnecessary by An Garda Síochána does not generally arise.

Both the Department and AGS have developed a process of consultation that is designed to ensure the legislation produced delivers long-term reforms and the creation of legislation to support the Justice System and all its constituent parts.

In light of the above, it is not possible to set out the information sought by the Deputy in list form but I trust this response answers the Deputy's query nonetheless.