Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 September 2007
1057 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will further investigate police forces that have officers wearing turbans (details supplied) while they are carrying out their public duties. [20861/07]
View answer1058 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will enter direct dialogue with the Irish Sikh Council on the turban issue. [20862/07]
View answer1059 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respect best international practice by allowing Sikhs to wear their turbans when joining An Garda Síochána and the Garda Reserve. [20863/07]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1057 to 1059, inclusive, together.
The Garda Síochána Uniform and the wearing of any items of clothing as part of that Uniform, for either the full time Force or the Reserve, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
There have been consultations between the sikh community and the Garda authorities on this matter and the Garda Commissioner's official statement which explains his position, is available on www.garda.ie.
