Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including all operational policing matters. As Minister, I have no role in these matters, nor can I direct the Commissioner with regard to them.

As referred to by the Deputy in the additional clarification provided to my Department, I made enquiries with the Garda authorities in relation to the number of vetting applications received in respect to Local Authority Housing.

I understand that Section 15 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1997 provides for Local Authorities to obtain criminal record checks in respect of persons applying for housing.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that the Garda Vetting Bureau has no role in any vetting carried out in respect of individual applicants for Local Authority housing.

I am further advised that these requests are processed on a case-by-case basis by the local Superintendent in charge of the District wherein the subject of the request resides. I am further advised that guidance in respect of the application of section 15 is provided for in HQ Directive 136/97.