Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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1512. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the remit and operational status of Fiosrú, the newly established police oversight body; whether it has been engaged in any independent reviews (details supplied) of serious or unsolved cases since its formation; and the way in which its independence, resourcing and reporting lines are being maintained to ensure effective Garda accountability. [45118/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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Under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, Fiosrú is an independent body with statutory objectives and aims to enhance the oversight and accountability of policing in Ireland, with sole responsibility for dealing with complaints about Gardaí. The legislation provides for the following statutory objectives:

- to promote public confidence in the processes for resolving complaints made by members of the public and in investigations.

- to improve public understanding of the role and functions of the Police Ombudsman.

- to ensure that functions are performed in a timely, efficient and effective manner and in accordance with fair procedures.

Under Section 173(8) of the PSCS Act 2024, the Police Ombudsman is independent in the performance of their functions, including the investigation of cases and the operational organisation of Fiosrú. As Minister, I have no role in these matters.

The Deputy may wish to note however that Fiosrú has a dedicated email address for provision of information to members of the Oireachtas: oireachtas@fiosru.ie.