Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Apr 1999

Vol. 503 No. 6

Written Answers. - Garda Operations.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

238 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the policy of the Garda in relation to searches of people's homes where it is subsequently found that the gardaí have made an error; his views on whether it should be standard practice for the gardaí to issue a letter of apology to the resident in view of the considerable distress and embarrassment which a search causes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10752/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that each search process is unique to the individual situation and must stand on its own merits. Searches initiated by An Garda Síochána are in accordance with relevant legislation and I am assured that members of An Garda Síochána are fully aware of the importance of courtesy to members of the public, and respect for their constitutional and legal rights.

When an individual feels there is cause for complaint recourse to the Garda Síochána Complaints Board, directly to Garda management and to the courts, where appropriate, is of course available to them.