Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 12 Mar 2003

Vol. 563 No. 2

Written Answers - Criminal Prosecutions.

Joe Costello

Question:

133 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he can now provide the information sought in Parliamentary Question No. 51 of 6 February 2003 which asked in respect of each of the past five years, the number of cases in which criminal charges have been brought against members of the Garda; the main offences in respect of which charges were brought; the number of cases in respect of which convictions were secured; the number of cases where prison sentences were imposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7342/03]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of cases in which criminal charges were brought against members of the Garda Síochána in the years 1998 to 2002, inclusive, is as follows: in 1998, 34 cases; in 1999, 34 cases; in 2000, 25 cases; in 2001, 32 cases; and in 2002, 31 cases.

The main offences in respect of which charges were brought were offences contrary to the Road Traffic Acts 1961-1995.

I am further informed that the number of cases in respect of which convictions were secured in the five year period is as follows: in 1998, 12 cases; in 1999, 16 cases; in 2000, 12 cases; in 2001, 11 cases; and in 2002, 9 cases.

I am also informed that the number of cases in which prison sentences were imposed is as follows: in 1998, no cases; in 1999, 2 cases; in 2000, 1 case; in 2001, 2 cases; and in 2002, no cases.