Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 December 2004
215 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in the context of Garda reform, he has plans to implement measures which will enhance the responsiveness and effectiveness of the Garda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33829/04]
View answer216 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in the context of Garda reform, he has plans to implement measures which will enhance the detection rates of the Garda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33830/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 215 and 216 together.
The day to day control and management of the Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. That said, however, the Deputy will be aware that I am currently moving the Garda Síochána Bill 2004 before the Seanad. One of the objectives of this Bill is to reform the legislative structure under which the Garda Síochána is managed. In particular, this will involve clarification of the role and objectives of the force and a redefinition of its relationship with the Minister and Government of the day.
The Bill's proposals reflect the outcome of a review of the Garda Síochána which was carried out under the Government's strategic management initiative. Arising from the provisions of the Bill the Minister of the day, having consulted with the Garda Commissioner, will be entitled to set policing priorities and establish performance targets aimed at achieving the objective of each priority. A copy of any such priorities and performance targets will be laid before each House of the Oireachtas and the commissioner will have to inform the Minister of measures taken to achieve the targets and the outcome. In the same way, the Garda Commissioner will be required to submit a three-yearly strategy statement and an annual policing plan taking account of Government policy, priorities determined by the Minister and the resources expected to be available.
It is also my intention to introduce amendments to the Garda Síochána Bill to provide for the establishment of an independent Garda Síochána inspectorate This proposal is being brought forward in the light of the first report of the Morris tribunal, and in particular the recommendation of the tribunal that the Department, in its oversight role in relation to the Garda Síochána, must be empowered by knowledge. The main functions of the inspectorate will be to ensure that the Minister and the Department will have objective information on matters relevant to the functioning of the force. The key objectives will be to ensure and promote efficiency and effectiveness in the Garda Síochána and to provide advice and support to the Minister and the Department.
