Many of the issues raised in the research report on work safety, health and welfare in the Garda Síochána are operational matters for the Garda Síochána in the first instance. I understand that the Garda Representative Association has supplied the Commissioner with a copy of the research report and that the issues contained therein are currently being studied by the Garda authorities in consultation with the divisions named in the report.
During 2003 the Commissioner approved the establishment of a Garda National Safety Committee. The committee establishes on a formal basis, a consultation process for staff associations representing employees in the Garda Síochána on matters pertaining to health and safety. The terms of reference of the committee include, inter alia, the following: to provide a forum for discussion between Garda management, representatives from staff associations and employees on health and safety at a national level; and to make recommendations to enhance: promotion and development of health in the Garda Síochána; health and safety procedures; the reporting and reduction of occupational accidents and diseases in the workplace; safety audits; health and safety training; and the safe implementation and introduction of new equipment, new technologies and new procedures. In addition to the above there is a divisional safety committee in each Garda division, chaired by the chief superintendent.
I also advise the Deputy that health and safety issues relating to the physical Garda accommodation are dealt with in the context of the overall Garda building programme. In addition, individual issues are addressed when they are brought to the attention of the Office of Public Works.
