Private Security Industry

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2011

Tuesday, 29 November 2011

Questions (382)

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

411 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has asked the Private Security Authority to investigate allegations that some non-EEA nationals have been approved for private security licences although they do not have work visas for Ireland; if he will indicate whether the Private Security Authority liaises with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation regarding these licenses and work visas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37284/11]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter)

The Private Security Authority (PSA) is the regulatory body with responsibility for the regulation and licensing of the security industry in Ireland. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department and so the processing of licence applications is a matter solely for the Authority.

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (DJEI) is the body authorised to issue employment permits in accordance with the Employment Permits Acts 2003 and 2006. The monitoring of individuals and employers for compliance with the relevant work permit legislation is also a matter for that Department. The issuing of a PSA licence does not of itself confer a right to work in the State and it is a matter for the licence holder and employer to ensure that work permit requirements are met. I am informed that the Authority has consulted with the DJEI in the past on this general issue.