Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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317. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the discussions that she has had to date with unions representing civilian staff working with An Garda Síochána in advance of drafting of the general scheme of the policing, security and community safety Bill; if it is intended to change the terms and conditions of such staff; if she will meet the unions to discuss this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59975/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill was approved for publication by Government on 22 November 2022.

The Bill, as part of a suite of proposals to empower the Garda Commissioner as a “true CEO” to lead the organisation and drive change, provides for the Garda Commissioner to recruit Garda staff directly to An Garda Síochána as public servants, as he does with respect to sworn Garda members, thereby creating an integrated single workforce. At present Garda staff are recruited into the general civil service and then assigned to work in An Garda Síochána.

This change was recommended by the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI), who considered that the current arrangements were not conducive to developing a common mission within the organisation or a framework for career progression for Garda staff. A single workforce, supported by tailored training, will enable the different skills and perspectives of Garda members and staff alike to be leveraged in order to enhance the capacity of the organisation to deliver better policing outcomes. It will promote and foster the idea of a career in An Garda Síochána for all Garda personnel, and attract candidates interested specifically in such a career, and the opportunity to contribute to its mission and service to the community.

CoFPI’s report and recommendations were informed by extensive consultations including with trade unions and representative bodies representing members and staff.

It is important to note that no changes to the terms and conditions of existing staff will take place solely as a result of the commencement of this legislation. The Bill, which is expected to become law next year with commencement in January 2024, sets out clearly that their terms and conditions are fully protected. Any change in their Civil Service status is subject to the Minister engaging with the trade unions and staff associations concerned and considering any representations made by them prior to making an order altering their status.

Preliminary dialogue has taken place between my Department, Garda management and staff trade unions and associations in relation to these changes. My Department is available to engage further with the staff representatives on these important matters and fully expects to do so as this process develops.