Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 2002

Vol. 558 No. 4

Written Answers. - Garda Operations.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

372 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is standard practice in An Garda Síochána for an arresting officer to hold a suspect's personal property, including identity documents and passport, in his or her own personal locker, and to therefore have sole access to this property. [24630/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that in cases where a suspect's property is taken into the possession of the Garda Síochána, the member is required to keep this property in safe custody until disposed of lawfully and to store it securely.