Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Sep 1996

Vol. 469 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Work Practice.

Noel Ahern

Question:

492 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Justice the average length of time it takes gardaí to send a file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if she will lay down guidelines of performance indicators for the gardaí in view of such public concern. [16503/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a substantial number of investigation files are submitted to the DPP each year. The time taken for an investigation varies from case to case depending on the complexities of it. Information on the average length of time taken for investigation is not maintained.

The Deputy will be aware that under the Public Service Strategic Management Initiative the Government has appointed a group, chaired by Mr. A.D. Barry, to carry out an examination of the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the Garda Síochána. Matters of the kind referred to by the Deputy would come within the ambit of this examination. This group has already commenced its work and has been asked to make recommendations by the end of the year.