Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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203. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to set out the Government’s position, prior to the enactment of the Private Security Services Act 2004, regarding the legal powers available to private security personnel in relation to the detention, restraint, or physical control of individuals; to clarify whether the Private Security Services Act 2004 provides any statutory power for private security personnel to detain, restrain, or otherwise deprive a person of their liberty; if he will confirm that private security staff possess no greater powers than those available to any member of the public under common-law citizen’s arrest; if he will outline the legal limits around the use of force by private security personnel, including the requirement for immediate handover to An Garda Síochána; the oversight that exists within the Private Security Authority (PSA) to identify, investigate, and sanction cases where private security staff act outside their lawful authority; and if he will detail whether his Department has conducted, commissioned, or reviewed any examinations of incidents where private security personnel have used force or physical restraint resulting in serious harm or death. [64415/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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205. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to outline the Government’s stated legal position prior to the enactment of the Private Security Services Act 2004 regarding the powers, if any, of private security personnel to detain or restrain members of the public. [64417/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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206. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will state whether his Department recognises the practice of private security personnel “retaining and detaining” individuals as being outside the scope of lawful authority; and if so, what actions the Department is taking to address such practices. [64418/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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207. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to set out the legal parameters governing the use of force by private security personnel, including proportionality, necessity, and the requirement for immediate handover to An Garda Síochána following any alleged citizen’s arrest. [64419/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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235. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether An Garda Síochána has conducted any review of investigative standards, evidence-gathering practices, CCTV retention, or venue cooperation in cases involving alleged assaults by private security staff where criminal prosecution could not be advanced. [64454/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

241. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has received any submissions or representations regarding patterns of aggressive conduct, excessive force, or alleged assaults by private security personnel in nightlife settings. [64460/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

242. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will undertake a review of the adequacy of current regulation, Garda investigative procedures, and venue responsibilities in relation to private security personnel, in light of increasing reports of serious incidents, assaults, and civil actions linked to nightlife settings. [64461/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

247. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel licensed by the Private Security Authority have any statutory authority to carry or use mechanical restraints, including handcuffs or plastic restraints; and if not, whether he intends to issue clarification or regulation in this area. [64473/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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278. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will clarify what constitutes "reasonable force" for private security staff in licensed venues; whether guidance includes practical scenarios in nightlife settings; and whether current enforcement mechanisms are adequate to prevent misuse. [64513/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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285. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will commission a comprehensive review of the Private Security Services Act 2004, including licensing, citizen's arrest, holding areas, training, complaints handling, and duty-of-care provisions, with a view to addressing systemic gaps and improving protection for members of the public. [64526/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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297. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether PSA and Garda oversight mechanisms are sufficient to monitor compliance with the 2021 Amendment and 2022 Regulations; and whether additional measures are being considered to prevent unlicensed or inadequately trained personnel from being deployed. [64538/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 203, 205, 206, 207, 235, 241, 242, 247, 278, 285 and 297 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes all operational matters such as criminal investigations.

As the Deputy will appreciate, I cannot provide an interpretation of legislation. The Private Security Services Act, 2004 (as amended) provides the legal basis for the regulation and licensing of sectors of the private security industry in Ireland.

The Private Security Authority (PSA), established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing and related standards such as training within the private security industry. The Authority is a statutorily independent body operating under the aegis of my Department.

The PSA has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtas@psa-gov.ie.

The Deputy may also wish to consult the PSA website at www.psa-gov.ie/, where details of the PSA's work, as well as all Annual Reports since the year 2010, can be found.

There are no current plans to amend the Private Security Services Act, 2004 (as amended). Legislation is considered for review when appropriate.

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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204. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to clarify whether private security personnel possess any statutory authority to detain, restrain, or physically control individuals under the Private Security Services Act 2004, or whether their powers are limited solely to those available to any member of the public under common-law citizen’s arrest. [64416/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

208. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to detail the oversight mechanisms within the Private Security Authority (PSA) to identify, investigate, and sanction private security personnel or companies that exceed their lawful authority or engage in unlawful detention or excessive force. [64420/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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209. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to list the number of cases in each of the past ten years where the Private Security Authority suspended, revoked, or refused licences due to allegations involving unlawful detention, assault, excessive force, or related misconduct. [64421/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

210. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA has ever carried out or contributed to reviews into incidents involving private security personnel where serious injury or death occurred; and if not, whether the Minister will consider directing such a review. [64422/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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211. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to provide the annual number of complaints received by the PSA relating to physical force, restraint, or alleged unlawful detention by private security personnel for each of the past ten years. [64423/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

212. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to outline the number of on-site inspections the PSA has conducted annually for the past ten years, and the number of enforcement actions arising from those inspections. [64424/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

213. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the minimum training standards required for licensing private security staff, including modules on lawful authority, use of force, restraint, and de-escalation. [64425/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

214. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security training currently includes any accredited instruction on physical restraint; and if not, the assessment which has been made regarding the risks associated with untrained personnel attempting to physically restrain individuals. [64426/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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215. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if private security licensing requires training on positional asphyxia, medical safety, or the dangers associated with multiple-person restraints; and if not, whether his Department will consider introducing such requirements. [64427/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

216. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the current vetting requirements for private security personnel; and whether his Department has assessed whether the existing regime adequately identifies individuals unsuitable for roles involving physical interaction with the public. [64428/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

217. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether additional regulatory standards apply to private security personnel operating in nightclubs, bars, or late-night venues where interactions involving physical force are more likely. [64429/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

218. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel working in nightclubs are required to report incidents involving force or restraint to the PSA or An Garda Síochána; and if such mandatory reporting is monitored or enforced. [64430/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

219. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has conducted any review of risks associated with private security practices in nightclubs, including multi-person restraint, chokeholds, or prone positioning. [64431/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

220. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether a review has been carried out by his Department, the PSA, or An Garda Síochána into deaths linked to interactions with nightclub security staff in the past 25 years; and whether he will consider establishing such a review. [64432/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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221. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the legal obligations on private security personnel to contact An Garda Síochána immediately after detaining an individual under citizen’s arrest; and whether failure to do so constitutes an offence. [64433/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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222. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether any formal protocols exist between An Garda Síochána and the PSA for handling incidents involving private security personnel, and if not, whether such protocols will be established. [64435/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

225. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of licensed private security personnel who have been the subject of complaints, allegations, or investigations relating to sexual assault or inappropriate conduct in the past five years; and if the Private Security Authority has recorded trends in such cases. [64438/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

227. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how allegations of sexual assault by private security staff are handled, which bodies have responsibility for investigating such allegations, and whether there is a centralised reporting system. [64440/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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228. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the Private Security Authority tracks sexual misconduct complaints against licence holders; and, if not, if he will consider establishing such a reporting mechanism. [64441/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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229. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality for the number of reported sexual assaults occurring in or near licensed venues (bars, nightclubs, events) in the past five years; and whether the Department assesses any correlation between such incidents and the conduct of venue security personnel. [64442/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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230. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if anonymised national data exists on sexual assault complaints involving door staff or bouncers; and if not, whether the Minister will request that An Garda Síochána or the PSA begin tracking such incidents. [64443/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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231. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether sexual assault prevention, bystander intervention, or safeguarding training is mandatory for private security staff working in nightlife settings; and if not, whether he plans to introduce such mandatory training. [64444/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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233. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he is aware of cases where civil claims involving private security staff have been settled, notwithstanding related criminal complaints that did not proceed due to a lack of admissible evidence; and whether his Department will examine whether this pattern indicates gaps in regulation, evidence gathering, or oversight. [64452/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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234. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has ever reviewed the divergence between criminal and civil outcomes in cases involving alleged assaults by private security staff; and whether any analysis has been carried out to determine why civil liability may be accepted where criminal prosecution was not possible. [64453/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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236. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will request that An Garda Síochána introduce a specific evidence protocol for incidents involving private security personnel, given the frequency of late-night, low-light, and CCTV-dependent investigations. [64455/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

237. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of complaints which have been received by the Private Security Authority in each of the past five years relating to excessive force, assault, or misconduct by licensed door staff or venue security personnel; and the number of these complaints which resulted in licence suspension, revocation, or enforcement action. [64456/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

238. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA collects or retains any information on civil claims, legal actions, or settlements involving licensed private security personnel; and if not, whether he will consider expanding the PSA’s statutory remit to include tracking of such matters. [64457/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

239. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider introducing a mandatory reporting requirement obliging licensed venues to notify the PSA of any civil claim, settlement, or insurance payout arising from alleged misconduct by private security staff. [64458/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

244. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether it is lawful for private security personnel to detain a person in an enclosed room within a licensed premises pending Garda arrival; and whether guidance has been issued to Gardaí regarding the handling of incidents where a person has been detained in such a manner. [64467/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

245. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether Gardaí receive training or guidance on the risks associated with holding areas used by private security staff, including the potential for excessive force, lack of CCTV coverage, or the absence of independent witnesses. [64468/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

246. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the Private Security Authority regulates or inspects the use of holding rooms in licensed venues, and whether any policies exist to prevent private security personnel from detaining individuals without lawful authority. [64470/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

248. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the Private Security Authority regulates or prohibits the use of handcuffs or other restraints by private security staff, and if any standards, codes of conduct, or training requirements apply to the use of restraints in nightlife or event settings. [64474/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

249. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed security personnel receive any accredited training in the application, monitoring, and safe removal of restraints, and whether the Department has assessed the potential risks of untrained personnel using such equipment. [64477/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

250. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of complaints received by the Private Security Authority in each of the past five years relating to the use of handcuffs, plastic restraints, or other forms of physical restraint by licensed security personnel. [64478/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

251. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether it is lawful for private security personnel to detain a person using handcuffs or similar restraints pending Garda arrival; and whether he intends to review the legal framework governing private detention and use-of-force in licensed venues. [64479/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

254. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel licensed by the Private Security Authority have any statutory authority to search individuals, including body searches or searches of personal property, within licensed premises or events; and if not, whether he will clarify the lawful limits of such searches. [64483/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

255. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel may conduct searches as part of a common-law citizen's arrest; and if so, whether guidance exists on the scope, proportionality, and lawful use of restraint during such searches. [64484/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

256. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA provides guidance on searches conducted with patron consent; including whether patrons may refuse a search, and what recourse or protections are available if a patron is searched without consent. [64485/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

257. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel or licensed venues can be held civilly or criminally liable for conducting searches of patrons that exceed lawful authority, and whether any cases have arisen in the past five years relating to such searches. [64486/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

258. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the Private Security Authority provides specific training, codes of conduct, or written guidance to licensees regarding searching individuals; and whether he will consider strengthening such guidance to prevent unlawful or excessive searches. [64487/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

259. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will consider introducing a requirement for licensed venues to inform patrons of their rights regarding searches, including through visible signage and written policies, to ensure that searches are conducted lawfully and transparently. [64488/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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260. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel licensed by the Private Security Authority owe a duty of care to patrons being removed from licensed premises; and if so, what guidance or statutory standards exist to ensure that patrons are not exposed to foreseeable harm during removal. [64490/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

261. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA provides specific guidance or training on the removal of intoxicated patrons; and whether security staff are required to ensure such individuals are escorted safely to a public area, taxi, or trusted companion, rather than being simply ejected. [64491/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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262. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether security staff are trained to recognise that a patron may be vulnerable due to being spiked, drugged, or otherwise incapacitated, and whether there are protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of such individuals during removal. [64492/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

263. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed venues are required to assess environmental risks when removing patrons at night, including isolated streets, dark alleys, or adverse weather, and whether security staff are expected to mitigate these risks in practice. [64493/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

264. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed venues and security personnel are required to document incidents where patrons are removed, particularly where they are intoxicated or vulnerable; and whether this documentation is reviewed by the PSA to ensure compliance with duty-of-care standards. [64494/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

265. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether a failure by security personnel to exercise reasonable care when removing patrons - for example, by leaving intoxicated or vulnerable individuals in unsafe circumstances can result in civil or criminal liability for the security personnel or the venue. [64495/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

266. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will consider enhancing PSA training, codes of conduct, and enforcement standards to explicitly cover duty of care obligations for security staff, including safe removal procedures, risk assessment, and safeguarding of vulnerable patrons. [64496/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

267. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the Private Security Authority prohibits individuals with previous convictions for assault, public order offences, or violent crime from obtaining a licence; and whether he considers the current vetting process adequate to protect the public. [64498/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

268. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how the PSA determines whether a person with a criminal record is suitable to work as a licensed security professional; whether there are guidelines or criteria for assessing risk; and whether any improvements are being considered. [64499/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

269. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether criminal convictions from other countries are considered when licensing private security personnel; and whether gaps in international vetting could allow individuals with violent histories to be employed in high-risk environments. [64500/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

270. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed security personnel are periodically re-vetted for new criminal convictions; and whether the absence of ongoing monitoring is a potential risk to public safety. [64501/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

271. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA requires venues or employers to report serious misconduct or criminal behaviour by licensed security staff; and whether failure to report such behaviour could be addressed through stronger regulatory requirements. [64506/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

272. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether private security personnel from outside Ireland are subject to enhanced vetting procedures before being licensed by the Private Security Authority; and whether the PSA has clear standards for checking criminal records, professional history, and suitability in their home countries. [64507/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

273. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures the PSA and Gardaí use to verify criminal convictions or disciplinary records for security staff who previously worked outside Ireland; whether international vetting relies on Interpol, EU criminal record exchange, or other mechanisms; and whether gaps have been identified in this process. [64508/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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274. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how private security staff from other countries who are hired on a temporary or short-term basis are vetted; whether there is any statutory requirement for full Garda or PSA approval; and whether he considers current procedures sufficient to prevent unsuitable individuals from being employed. [64509/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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275. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether there have been any incidents or complaints involving security personnel from outside Ireland where inadequate background checks contributed to unsafe situations; and whether lessons have been learned to improve vetting standards.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64510/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

276. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will consider reviewing and strengthening PSA vetting policies for non-Irish security staff to ensure consistent standards of safety, suitability, and accountability across all licensed personnel, regardless of nationality. [64511/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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277. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the Private Security Authority ensures robust vetting and background checks for security personnel licensed to work in high-risk environments such as nightclubs and bars; whether periodic re-vetting occurs; and whether reforms are planned to prevent unfit individuals from working in roles where serious harm could occur. [64512/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

279. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he is satisfied that security staff correctly apply common-law citizen's arrest powers; whether misuse is being monitored; and whether statutory clarification or reform is required to prevent unlawful detentions. [64514/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

280. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will review the use of holding rooms or secure areas in licensed premises, including their legality, oversight, and minimum safety or monitoring standards to protect detained patrons. [64515/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

281. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether current insurance requirements for private security contractors adequately cover harm caused by staff, including assault, unlawful detention, or negligence; and whether reforms are needed to ensure victims can access remedies. [64516/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

282. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA's training requirements for private security personnel are sufficient to equip staff with the skills necessary to safely manage intoxicated or vulnerable patrons, apply reasonable force appropriately, recognise potential spiking or medical emergencies, and comply with duty-of-care obligations; and whether he will consider strengthening training requirements. [64523/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

283. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed venues have a statutory obligation to ensure their contracted security personnel are trained, supervised, and monitored; and whether failure to meet this obligation could result in regulatory or civil liability. [64524/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

284. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will consider introducing mandatory public reporting by the PSA and licensed venues on security-related incidents, including assaults, detentions, and complaints, to improve transparency and public confidence in oversight. [64525/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

286. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether licensed venues have a statutory obligation to verify the PSA licence status of all contracted security personnel, including those supplied by external agencies; and whether failure to verify constitutes a breach of duty or exposes the venue to liability. [64527/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

287. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the PSA has any mechanisms to monitor or audit security agencies supplying staff to licensed venues, to ensure that all personnel are properly licensed and vetted; and whether he considers current oversight adequate. [64528/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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288. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether there have been any reported incidents where unlicensed or improperly vetted security staff supplied via agencies caused harm to patrons or breached regulations; and the measures which have been taken to prevent recurrence. [64529/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

289. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will issue clear guidance to venues on their responsibilities when hiring security staff through agencies, including checking licence validity, verifying training, and confirming suitability. [64530/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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290. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether a person must be an Irish citizen to obtain a Private Security Authority (PSA) licence; and if not, what residency or visa status is required for licensing. [64531/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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291. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality what procedures the PSA uses to verify that applicants from outside Ireland have lawful permission to work; and whether there are gaps in verification that could allow unqualified or unauthorized personnel to be employed as security staff. [64532/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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292. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how the PSA ensures that temporary, seasonal, or agency-supplied security staff from abroad are properly vetted, licensed, and legally entitled to work in Ireland; and whether current procedures are sufficient to protect public safety. [64533/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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293. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether there is any ongoing monitoring to ensure that foreign or temporary security personnel continue to hold valid visas, or work permits throughout their employment; and whether failure to monitor could create risks for patrons and venues. [64534/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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294. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he will review PSA licensing procedures to ensure that all non-Irish applicants are properly vetted, legally entitled to work, and do not pose a risk to public safety. [64535/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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295. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how the 2021 Amendment bringing enforcement guards under the PSA licence has been implemented; whether all such personnel are now properly licensed, vetted, and trained; and whether any gaps in compliance have been identified. [64536/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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296. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality how the PSA ensures that temporary security guard licence holders (under the 2022 Regulations) are adequately vetted, trained, and legally entitled to work, and whether temporary staffing arrangements create risks to public safety. [64537/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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298. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether security agencies employing temporary licence holders are required to verify licence validity and training compliance, and whether failure to do so could result in regulatory or civil liability. [64539/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 204, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 225, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 233, 234, 236, 237, 238, 239, 244, 245, 246, 248, 249, 250, 251, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 286, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296 and 298 together.

The Private Security Services Act, 2004 (as amended) provides the legal basis for the regulation and licensing of sectors of the private security industry in Ireland. The Private Security Authority (PSA), established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing the private security industry. The Authority is a statutorily independent body operating under the aegis of my Department.

The PSA has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtas@psa-gov.ie.

The Deputy may also wish to consult the PSA website at www.psa-gov.ie/, where details of the PSA's work, as well as all Annual Reports since the year 2010, can be found.

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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223. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has carried out any assessment of legislative gaps concerning the powers, supervision, and accountability of private security staff since the introduction of the Private Security Services Act 2004. [64436/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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224. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he intends to bring forward amendments to the Private Security Services Act 2004 to strengthen public protections, increase accountability, or place statutory limits on physical restraint practices. [64437/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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226. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether the current vetting and licensing framework for private security personnel includes specific safeguarding or sexual misconduct screening, and whether any reforms are planned. [64439/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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232. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he intends to review the Private Security Services Act 2004 to strengthen protections for the public in nightlife environments, including clearer guidelines on the conduct of security staff and the handling of sexual assault allegations. [64451/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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240. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review the Private Security Services Act 2004 to strengthen safeguards for the public, including clearer obligations on venues to cooperate with Gardaí, retain CCTV, and report patterns of misconduct involving security staff. [64459/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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243. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether he intends to bring forward amendments to the Private Security Services Act 2004 or related regulations to enhance public safety, improve oversight, and address emerging risks identified within the nightlife sector. [64462/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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252. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has identified any regulatory gaps regarding the authorisation, training, monitoring, and accountability of private security personnel who use mechanical restraints, and whether reforms are planned. [64481/25]

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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253. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether his Department has considered the regulatory frameworks in other jurisdictions where private security personnel are permitted to use mechanical restraints only under defined, limited, and supervised conditions, and whether similar measures will be examined in Ireland. [64482/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 223, 224, 226, 232, 240, 243, 252 and 253 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes the National Vetting Bureau and all operational matters such as criminal investigations.

As the Deputy will appreciate, I cannot provide an interpretation of legislation. The Private Security Services Act, 2004 (as amended) provides the legal basis for the regulation and licensing of sectors of the private security industry in Ireland.

The Private Security Authority (PSA), established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing and related standards such as training within the private security industry. The Authority is a statutorily independent body operating under the aegis of my Department.

The PSA has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtas@psa-gov.ie.

The Deputy may also wish to consult the PSA website at www.psa-gov.ie/, where details of the PSA's work, as well as all Annual Reports since the year 2010, can be found.

There are no current plans to amend the Private Security Services Act, 2004 (as amended). Legislation is considered for review when appropriate.