Derek McDowell
Question:174 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the next annual report from the Garda Síochána Complaints Board will be published. [27046/01]
Written Answers. - Garda Disciplinary Proceedings.
I understand the annual report of the Garda Síochána Complaints Board for 2000 is close to finalisation and I expect it will be forwarded to me shortly. Arrangements will be made to have the report published as quickly as possible after it has been submitted by the board.
Derek McDowell
Question:175 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reactions he has received based on the 1999 annual report from the Garda Síochána Complaints Board. [27047/01]
Derek McDowell
Question:176 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the submissions he has received on the framing of a new Bill in relation to the Garda complaints procedure. [27048/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 175 and 176 together.
The 1999 annual report of the Garda Síochána Complaints Board highlighted the issue of introducing new legislation in relation to the arrangements for dealing with complaints against Garda members. This is a matter which has been the subject of correspondence and discussions with a wide range of interested parties. These include the complaints board, the Garda authorities and the Garda associations.
I have taken the relevant submissions and views into account in the context of the measures I have published recently for the establishment of a Garda inspectorate, which will be responsible for handling and investigating Garda complaints made by members of the public. Work on the legislation required to give effect to the new measures is being undertaken as quickly as possible.
Question No. 177 answered with Question No. 173.