Liam Aylward
Question:38 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to introduce regulations to govern the carriage of large sums of money by security firms. [9728/96]
Written Answers. - Cash Escorts.
James Leonard
Question:155 Mr. Leonard asked the Minister for Justice the plans, if any, she has to introduce a compulsory licensing system for security firms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9876/96]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 155 together.
Following the robbery at the Brink's-Allied depot in January 1995, gardaí evaluated the escourt duty role they provide and various changes were introduced as a result. For security reasons it would not be possible for me to detail such changes.
I also requested officials in my Department to carry out a review of the issues involved in the possible statutory regulation of the private security industry. I have asked for a report as to whether regulation might be reasonably expected to reduce the possibility of further such robberies at commercial premises and, in general, result in an improved service to the public.
This review is nearing completion and includes an examination of the position regarding the regulation of the security industry in other jurisdictions.
It is important to remember that the security industry covers a large area of commercial activity, i.e. providing security for the storage and transit of cash; commercial security; the supply and installation of intruder-fire alarms; sales of other security equipment; the provision of a 24 hour monitoring and answering service for alarm-call and emergency call-out facilities; providing security for individuals and their homes; private investigations. The difficulties in regulating such a wide range of activity will be various.