asked the Minister for Justice if his attention has been drawn to reports (details supplied) concerning a possible return to regular Garda duties by juvenile liaison officers, their threat to abandon the scheme unless a proper career structure and policy are instituted and their complaint concerning a transport allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Juvenile Liaison Officers.
8.
The Commissioner informs me that he is not aware of any move by juvenile liaison officers to return to ordinary duties. A deputation of juvenile liaison officers was received at Garda Headquarters on 28th January by a senior Garda officer. They put forward certain proposals in relation to their duties as juvenile liaison officers and these proposals are at present being examined by the Commissioner.
An analytical study of the scheme was carried out recently by a systems analyst and his report is being considered by my Department and by the Commissioner.
Would the Minister accept it from me if I tell him that the main concern of the juvenile liaison officers is the question of transport, that they do not have a transport allowance? The second point of considerable importance to them is that there is no overall authority for the JLOs. They come under "crime prevention".
I hesitate to interrupt the Deputy but I am anxious that he conform with the procedure of Question Time. Questions, please, rather than statements.
Is the Minister aware that crime prevention covers a vast area, that in fact there is no overall authority just simply for the JLOs?
As I indicated in my reply, discussions with regard to the JLOs and their role are under way following an analytical study of the scheme recently carried out. These are matters which are under review at present.
Might I ask the Minister, in relation to the report which he commissioned—and on which I compliment him—and which I understand is ready that he will ensure there will be the minimum delay in implementing some of its recommendations?
I am happy to give that assurance to the Deputy. I am very keen to have this scheme expanded.