Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 October 2011
74 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will provide an update on the review of joint policing committees; when this will be finalised and any findings thus far; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31230/11]
View answerThe functions and powers of Joint Policing Committees (JPCs) are set out in the Garda Síochána Act 2005, which provides for a Committee in each local authority area. The Act provides that JPCs operate under guidelines issued by the Minister for Justice and Equality after consultation with the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government. The current guidelines were issued in September, 2008.
The Programme for Government makes a commitment to build on existing community policing partnerships and forums to enhance trust between local communities and their Gardaí. I am aware that some JPCs are working better than others, depending on the local authority. As I have already informed the House, I intend shortly to communicate with local authorities to get an overview of how the JPCs are operating and the extent to which their activities are constructive and beneficial to the community and the Gardaí. My Department, the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and An Garda Síochána have commenced work on reviewing the operation of the Committees. My intention is that a document will be prepared, on the basis of which consultations will take place with the local authorities on how the operation of the Committees might be improved, with a view to updating the guidelines. I envisage that this process will be substantially complete in the early part of next year.
In addition, my Department has been engaged in a major consultative exercise leading to the production of a White Paper on crime. One of the issues addressed in this exercise has been the role of the JPCs. The White Paper will set out a policy framework for future strategies to combat and prevent crime. The intention is that this process will lead ultimately to a national anti-crime strategy, in which the JPCs will have a role to play.
