Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 November 2004
369 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress being made in developing a co-ordinated framework on drug policy within each Garda district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29733/04]
View answerI am informed by the Garda authorities that, since March 2004, the Garda structures for delivering local drugs strategies have been enhanced by the establishment of a specific co-ordinating framework for delivering the organisation's overall drug strategy. This co-ordinating framework involves the nomination of individuals at the following levels within the organisation: national, assistant commissioner; national support services; regional, detective superintendent; divisional, inspector; and district, sergeant. Part of the role of the nominated individuals is the compilation of divisional drug policing plans which reflect local priorities in terms of reduction of supply and demand for drugs.
370 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in establishing community policing fora; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29734/04]
View answerTwo community policing fora have been established in the context of the national drugs strategy. These are operating on a pilot basis under the aegis of the north inner city and Finglas — Cabra local drugs task forces, respectively.
Also, the Garda Commissioner has established a community policing forum in Dublin's "A" Garda district on a pilot basis following extensive consultations between the gardaí and community interests. The establishment of community policing fora, in general, needs to be delivered in the context of an appropriate policy framework for what will be relatively new partnership structures involving the gardaí, local authorities and local communities to deal with a range of issues of mutual concern. Such a framework will ensure that community policing fora are developed in an appropriate, consistent and properly planned manner.
Work is well under way on the development of such a policy framework. The Garda Síochána Bill 2004 represents the most significant legislative reform of Garda structures since the foundation of the State. Included in its draft provisions are mechanisms for enhanced co-operation between the gardaí and local authorities through the establishment, on a statutory basis, of policing committees. It is intended that such committees will act as fora where matters relating to all aspects of policing can be discussed and where strategies and recommendations for dealing with issues arising locally can be decided. It is also intended that these policing committees will facilitate the establishment of local policing fora to address specific issues in local areas.
