Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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316. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the oversight that is in place for GSOC operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20126/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) is independent in the performance of its functions. As Minister, I have no direct role in such matters.

The existing legal framework for the operation of GSOC is set out in Part 3 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended). The Act includes provisions designed to ensure the confidentiality of all information obtained by GSOC for the purpose of implementing its statutory functions. It is a matter for GSOC to ensure that these provisions are complied with.

As GSOC is statutorily independent in its operation and administration, it would not be appropriate for me, as Minister, to comment on or interfere with investigations.

In accordance with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, the relationship between GSOC and my Department is governed by an oversight agreement, with performance expectations set by annual agreement.

The oversight agreement sets out the broad governance and administrative accountability framework within which GSOC operates, and defines the key statutory and administrative roles, responsibilities and commitments that underpin its relationship with my Department.

Under the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, GSOC is required to seek the Minister's views on its strategy. GSOC is also required under the Code to submit an Annual Compliance Statement to the Minister for Justice.

GSOC is also accountable to the Oireachtas under certain provisions within the Garda Síochána Act 2005, subject to certain safeguards in relation to its work.

As the Deputy may also be aware, section 109 of the 2005 Act provides that the Minister may request the Chief Justice to invite a judge to inquire into the conduct of a designated officer of GSOC in relation to investigations under the Act.

GSOC has a vital role in upholding confidence in policing in Ireland, and it is incredibly important that public confidence in GSOC be maintained. I can also advise the Deputy that the Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill 2023 is a Bill that gives effect to a Programme for Government commitment and has its origins in the report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI).

A key objective of the Bill is to simplify and streamline GSOC’s investigation processes and to deliver a more efficient and effective complaints handling system overall. The Bill, when enacted, will also reform the structure of the body and provide a new framework for governance and accountability. The Bill was published on 19 January 2023. It is currently making its way through the legislative process and I aim to have it enacted and commenced by January 2024.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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317. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of vehicles that are in the operation of GSOC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20128/23]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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318. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of people employed by GSOC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20130/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 317 and 318 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) has a very important role to play in ensuring public confidence in An Garda Síochána and it has extensive powers under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended).

The Government is committed to ensuring that GSOC has the necessary supports and resources in order to fulfil its statutory functions and mandate. I can inform the Deputy that Budget 2023 made provision of €16.2 million for the Commission to provide for the staff and expenses of GSOC’s operations.

I am advised that as of 26 April 2023 there were 19 cars attached to GSOC.

I am further advised that there are currently a total of 161 officers serving in GSOC with roles in casework, investigations, protected disclosures and the corporate administration function.