Noel Treacy
Question:19 Mr. N. Treacy asked the Minister for Justice her views on the performance, development and review within the Garda Síochána. [9765/96]
Written Answers. - Scheme of Performance Development and Review.
One of the aims of the Garda Síochána Corporate Strategy Policy Document is to achieve excellence in the Force through the development of effective quality management. The scheme of performance development and review was introduced as one means of achieving this objective.
The scheme involves each job holder and supervisor in managing, planning, agreeing and reviewing work programmes. It also aims to identify the appropriate training and development needs of members of the Force. Individuals, in consultation with their superior officers, set specific challenges and attainable goals for the following year. During the year reviews are held to monitor progress and, if necessary, to make adjustments to targets. It is anticipated that the scheme of performance development and review will result in an increase in efficiency and effectiveness in the Force and an improvement in the quality of service provided by the Force to the general public.
The scheme was implemented for commissioner ranks initially and is being introduced for other ranks in order. The scheme is currently in operation for all ranks from Deputy Commissioner down to Inspector, inclusive. Performance development and review for the garda and sergeant ranks is at present the subject of discussions at the Garda Conciliation Council. The proceedings of the council are confidential and, consequently, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.