Written Answers Nos. 1-29
8. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has met recently with the representative organisations of members of An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9971/16]
View answerI keep in regular contact with the Garda representative bodies. As regards recent meetings, I met with the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) on the 20 April last and have indicated that I am open to meeting them again shortly. I met the Garda Representative Association (GRA) on 27 January and expect to meet them again within the next two weeks. In addition, my officials engage with the Associations through various industrial relations fora and bilaterally. Indeed, they have met the GRA, AGSI and the Association of Garda Superintendents within the last few days and further discussions are planned, including with the Association of Chief Superintendents.
As the Deputy will be aware both the GRA and AGSI have rejected the Lansdowne Road Agreement. That is their right and I understand that there are a variety of reasons for their rejection of the Agreement. The Programme for Government restates the Government's commitment to the Lansdowne Road Agreement as the framework for industrial relations and pay determination within the public service until 2018. Within this framework, the Programme commits to the establishment of a Commission for Public Sector Pay to examine pay levels across the public service, including entry levels of pay, and to the gradual, negotiated repeal of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (FEMPI) Acts.
I am very conscious of the frustration of members of An Garda Síochána at the pace of pay restoration; it is a frustration shared by all public servants who played a significant part in stabilising the public finances and bringing about the economic recovery. The Commission, when established, will provide the forum for the consideration of matters relating to the pay of all public servants, including members of An Garda Síochána for the coming years, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to assist the Associations in ensuring that their members - the men and women of An Garda Síochána - are appropriately rewarded for the challenging and often dangerous work that they do on our behalf, day in day out. In my view, this can best be achieved by their participation in the Commission within the framework of the Lansdowne Road Agreement.
My Department and I will continue to engage actively with the GRA and AGSI, in particular, over the coming weeks with the objective of creating a pathway to their re-engagement with the Lansdowne Road Agreement. I see this process addressing, to the greatest extent possible, the main issues of concern to the Associations and their members, including the decision of the European Committee of Social Rights in EuroCop v Ireland and I can assure the Deputy that I will be approaching these discussions positively with the ambition of reaching a solution that works for the Associations, their members, and the public at large.
10. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to comment on efforts made to progress legislation aimed at curbing the theft of scrap and precious metal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10046/16]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the new Programme for Government contains a commitment to publish legislation in relation to the regulation of the sale and purchase of precious metals.
Last year, my Department undertook a consultation process in relation to this issue. The consultation document sets out a number of policy options taking account of the views expressed in previous reports on the issue, Private Members' Bills introduced by Deputy McGrath, a Report by the Oireachtas Library and Research Service and the observations of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality on the issue.
A total of 6 submissions were received many of which had common proposals for introducing safeguards to prevent stolen items of jewellery being sold to businesses trading in precious metals and stones. Proposals included some form of registration or licensing system; basic identity checks and recording of same when precious metal and/or stones are purchased by businesses; payments for relevant items purchased to be made by cheque or electronic means.
On the basis of the submissions received, and having regard to proposals previously made in this connection, it is my intention to bring forward a proportionate legislative response which will include a system of registration, regulation regarding the purchase of precious metals and stones, powers for An Garda Síochána and penalties for non-compliance.
As outlined in the consultation document, as an initial step my Department will need to consult with An Garda Síochána to obtain their views on how to best implement this recommended course of action. Furthermore my Department is committed to liaising with other relevant Departments and agencies to further strengthen the regulation of the sale and purchase of scrap metal. There will, of course, be further opportunity for the Deputy and other interested parties to contribute to the process.
11. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if An Garda Síochána has the necessary resources available to it at all levels to combat criminal activity; if a sufficient quality and quantity of transport, technical assistance and intelligence is available to it to meet the challenges of criminal activity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9981/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government prioritises a significant programme of investment in An Garda Síochána with an overarching goal of continuing the accelerated recruitment programme with a view to increasing Garda numbers to 15,000, to double the Garda Reserve and to increase further civilianisation to free up more Gardaí for frontline policing duties.
The Programme also recognises that Gardaí must have the modern technology and resources necessary to detect and investigate crimes, and to prevent loss and harm to citizens and their property on a 24/7 basis.
The 2016 Budget allocation of €1.5 billion for An Garda Síochána includes over €67 million in additional funding which, in addition to the recruitment of new trainee Gardaí, also provides additional funding for Garda Surveillance, special operations and targeted, intelligence-led policing. This additional recruitment and budget allocation builds on the current high level of investment in Garda vehicles.
Over €34 million has been invested in new Garda vehicles since 2012 with over 720 new vehicles coming on stream since the start of 2015. This significant investment provides the Gardaí with additional high-powered vehicles, marked and unmarked patrol cars, and motorcycles for high-visibility road policing. Investment in a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose Garda fleet will continue under the Government’s Capital Plan 2016-2021 which provides €46 million for new Garda vehicles, ensuring that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive, on the roads and in the community.
The Government is also investing in Garda airborne surveillance and enhanced technology and ICT systems. In fact, the Capital Plan 2016-2021 provides an additional €205 million for Garda ICT over the lifetime of the Plan which will allow An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting edge technologies in the fight against crime. In addition, the Government will support investment in CCTV at key locations along the road network and in urban centres.
In terms of existing technology, the Deputy will be aware that a considerable amount of new Garda ICT solutions has been delivered over the past number of years. These include the deployment of a secure national digital radio system (NDRS), the deployment and support of Garda and Community CCTV systems, an automated number plate recognition (ANPR) system and the addition of many new functions to the PULSE system, which itself is further supported by a dedicated Garda data entry service in Castlebar. These and other new technological solutions, as well as the investment in resources, will ensure that An Garda Síochána has the capacity to provide effective policing services in responding to the evolving challenges of modern day criminal activity.
Taken together, this step-change in investment in policing demonstrates this Government's commitment to investing in 21st Century policing and will ensure that the Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive, on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.
I have assured An Garda Síochána that they have the full support of the Government in their efforts to disrupt gang-related crime and they will continue to access all resources necessary, including extensive overtime, to support them in delivering concentrated visible policing measures to tackle gang-related crime.
12. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to engage further on the issues surrounding the case of the disappearance of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10010/16]
View answerAt the outset, I would like to say that I am very conscious of the ongoing trauma and distress for the families and friends of persons who go missing and, in relation to the case referred to by the Deputy, I can assure the House that I am fully aware of the various concerns which have been raised about it. I am also mindful of the sensitivity of the issues involved and, in this regard, I might add that I have previously met with the next of kin of the missing person, who is also the principal point of contact within the family for An Garda Síochána.
As I have outlined in responses to previous parliamentary questions in relation to this case, the disappearance of the person in question remains the subject of an ongoing Garda investigation. In these circumstances, I am sure that everyone in this House will understand that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on specific aspects of this case. I am also mindful of the need to ensure that nothing we say would add to the distress which the family in this case has already experienced.
However, I can confirm to the Deputy that I have given very close attention to correspondence received in my Department which raised issues in relation to the Garda investigation and also the question of holding an inquest. In relation to the Garda investigation, I am advised that a Garda Review Team is endeavouring to advance the investigation and that all avenues of inquiry are being fully being pursued. I also understand that two complaints in relation to the case have been investigated by the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC). I am advised that no misbehaviour on the part of members of An Garda Síochána was identified by GSOC and the complainant was notified of these findings.
In relation to the holding of an inquest, the Deputy may be aware that, under the Coroners Act 1962, as amended, a coroner is a statutory officer exercising quasi-judicial functions, in relation to which he or she is independent. A Coroner is responsible for the scheduling and conducting of inquests in his or her district and neither I nor my Department has any role in the conduct of an inquest in individual cases.
In conclusion, I can inform the Deputy that I have recently issued responses to the correspondence which I received about certain aspects of this case and I have asked my officials and the Garda authorities to keep me updated on further developments in this matter.
13. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of mechanically propelled vehicles reported stolen in each of the past five years; if she will use global positioning system technology to reduce these numbers by tracking stolen vehicles; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10015/16]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that figures relating to the category of theft/taking of vehicle and related offences are available on the Central Statistics website www.cso.ie as follows:
|
Year |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
|
Theft/taking of vehicle and related offences |
10,393 |
8,448 |
7,368 |
7,763 |
As the Deputy will note, these statistics indicate a significant decrease in the number of vehicle theft and related offences over the five years referred to in his question, with the 2015 figure representing a close to 40% reduction in the number of such offences when compared with the 2011 figure.
I trust the Deputy will appreciate that the provision of crime prevention advice and the adoption of various crime reduction strategies are an operational matter in the first instance for An Garda Síochána. I can, however, inform the Deputy that an information leaflet dealing specifically with vehicle crime prevention is available from An Garda Síochána's website, and this details a range of practical steps that vehicle owners can take, including the use of vehicle tracking systems.
I will of course bring any particular suggestions the Deputy has in relation to further enhancing vehicle crime prevention to the attention of An Garda Síochána.
14. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when the members of An Garda Síochána in Sligo town will have a new station; her plans to reconfigure Garda resources in west County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9996/16]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021, which I announced with the then Minister of State at the OPW, in October 2015, makes provision for a new Garda Regional Headquarters in Sligo.
This project is included with a number of other Garda projects which are intended to be financed by way of public private partnership (PPP). The development of the Garda projects under PPP involves collaboration between my Department, An Garda Síochána, the Office of Public Works and the National Development Finance Agency.
I am advised that an Garda Síochána is currently engaging with the Office of Public Works in relation to the allocation of a site in Sligo for this development.
The Refurbishment Programme provides for over €60 million in direct Exchequer funding as part of the Government’s Capital Plan 2016-2021 and a public private partnership. The direct Exchequer funding includes €18 million provided in the Garda vote under the Capital Plan which is additional to the funding allocated to the OPW vote.
The Programme was developed by An Garda Síochána and the OPW having regard to the strategic priorities of An Garda Síochána and includes:
- the development of new stations through a public private partnership project;
- major refurbishment of stations/facilities including facilities for meeting victims of crime;
- essential remedial works to existing stations;
- development of large scale property and exhibit management stores (PEMS);
- upgrade to cells and provision of improved custody management facilities.
The Deputy will appreciate that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I would point out, however, that the Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. Key to achieving this goal is the commitment in the Programme for Government, "A Programme for a Partnership Government" to continue the ongoing accelerated Garda recruitment programme with a view to increasing Garda numbers to 15,000.
15. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to meet with representatives from the community sector to discuss meaningful actions to address serious violence and drug dealing in the north inner city area of Dublin. [10145/16]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that I met recently yesterday with representatives of a number of community networks based in Dublin's North Inner City, at their request, and visited a youth project in the area. We discussed a wide range of complex and serious issues that affect the community in the North Inner city including the recent murders which have caused such distress in the area.
I outlined at the meeting, as I have in response to earlier questions today, that I remain committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána have the necessary resources to confront and oppose violent crime. In this regard the Government has already moved decisively to strengthen Garda resources to deal with gang related crime in the Dublin area, with a special allocation of €5 million to support concentrated policing measures, including steps to establish a dedicated Armed Support Unit in the Dublin area. The Garda response includes highly visible policing, the use of armed checkpoints, and targeted and intelligence based operations to disrupt and prevent incidents as well as detecting and prosecuting those involved. There has been no diminution in these operations in recent weeks and the Garda authorities have assured me that the opposite is in fact the case.
Tackling the drugs trade is central to the policing measures in place to tackle community safety concerns in the North Inner City, and An Garda Síochána is a long term partner in a number of local consultative fora and engages extensively with the community in the area. My Department also funds a number Youth Diversion and Probation Projects working in the area to address offending and divert those at risk.
As I am sure the Deputy will agree, however, the broader health and social issues associated with drug misuse are not ones which the Justice sector can address on its own. In this regard, both my Department and An Garda Síochána continue to support the operation of Local Drugs Task Forces and participate in the work of the National Drugs Strategy under the aegis of the Department of Health, including in relation to the development of a new national strategy, which is currently underway.
16. Deputy John Brassil asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of the closure of all stations in County Kerry since 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9975/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support of this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued to An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
17. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her assessment of the report of the O’Higgins commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9969/16]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, I published the report of the O'Higgins Commission of Investigation into certain matters relevant to the Cavan/Monaghan Division of the Garda Síochána on the 11th of May. I want, again, to record my thanks to Mr Justice O'Higgins and his team for carrying out their task so expeditiously and for the thorough and thoughtful report. It deserves the most careful consideration so that we can all do everything possible to avoid a repeat of the issues which gave rise to it in the first place.
Using the wide range of statutory powers available to it, the Commission of Investigation has established, as definitively as it is possible to do, the facts surrounding the difficult matters it was asked to examine. Inevitably, Mr Justice O'Higgins reaches a number of conclusions about the roles played by a number of persons in the events outlined in his report. I hope all those affected can accept, as I do fully, that Mr Justice O'Higgins looked at the facts fairly and dispassionately and made every effort to do justice to the position of all.
Whatever controversies might have surrounded some of the issues dealt with in the report we should not lose sight of one central and unpalatable fact: that victims were not best served by the Gardaí in a number of these cases. That is as unacceptable as it is disheartening and we must take all measures open to us to ensure that these shortcomings are not repeated. It is victims who should be our central concern.
Some of the events investigated by Mr Justice O’Higgins go back almost a decade. For my own part, I believe that it is abundantly clear that the system we had in place up to a couple of years ago to deal with reports of wrongdoing within the Gardaí served no-one particularly well: not the people making the reports, not the people the subject of those reports, not the Garda Síochána and, above all, not the public. This situation has been significantly transformed in a number of respects. In particular, the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, which was part of the previous Government's comprehensive approach to enhance the protection available to whistleblowers, provides a new mechanism for protected disclosures relating to An Garda Síochána. Now, a Garda member may make a protected disclosure to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, a statutorily independent body with a comprehensive range of powers available to it. The Ombudsman Commission may, if it believes it is in the public interest to do so, investigate such a complaint. The Act also provides Gardaí who make protected disclosures with all the protections set out in the Act, including protection from dismissal and protection from penalisation.
Furthermore, there has been an unprecedented programme of Garda reform which, having had the honour of being reappointed as Minister for Justice and Equality, I am determined to continue to progress.
For all those changes which have taken place or are under way, it is important that we look specifically at what the report by Mr Justice O'Higgins has to say. In this regard, I have asked the Garda Commissioner to examine the report and to indicate to me what further measures might be taken by An Garda Síochána to prevent a recurrence of the particular issues dealt with in the report.
I have also forwarded a copy of the report to the Policing Authority in the context of its statutory role in relation to oversight of An Garda Síochána.
I very much appreciate that the events outlined in the report have been traumatic for many people who have been affected by them. It would be an injustice to those who brought events to light in the public interest and those who have lived under the shadow of these events for a long time, if we do not take on board the lessons from these events. I hope they can take some reassurance from the fact that the examination of those events in this report will help serve to consolidate a programme of reform which will ensure we continue to have a Garda Síochána in which its members and the community it serves can take great pride.
18. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to report to Dáil Éireann on her priorities for road safety, including the status of the Judge Keane ruling on section 22 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 regarding the non-production of driving licences in court and the wording of the summons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10013/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, Ireland has over a number of years developed a multi-agency approach to road safety through the involvement of a number of agencies working in partnership, under the aegis of a Road Safety Strategy led by my colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. Ireland's current Road Safety Strategy covers the period 2013-2020 and seeks to close the gap between Ireland and the safest countries in the European Union and beyond. Progress in relation to the actions and outcomes set out in this strategy are monitored on an ongoing basis by the Road Safety Authority and the other agencies involved, and overseen at a Ministerial Committee on Road Safety.
Insofar as road traffic enforcement is concerned, An Garda Síochána's Roads Policing Operations Plan 2016 incorporates a programme of high visibility road safety and enforcement operations, carried out in partnership with other state agencies, and is being implemented by each Regional Traffic Superintendent. The focus of the Roads Policing Operations Plan for 2016 is on the most vulnerable road user categories of motor cyclists, pedal cyclists, pedestrians and learner permit holders. Garda operations specifically target road use behaviour known to contribute significantly to collisions, including speeding, driving while intoxicated, and use of a mobile phone.
Insofar as the court case referred to by the Deputy is concerned, issues surrounding the application of Court-awarded penalty points to driving licences remains a priority for the Criminal Justice Fixed Charge Processing System (FCPS) Working Group. In this context, the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport is currently drafting tenders in relation to the detailed implementation of the ‘master driver licence record’. This project will assist by better linking vehicle and driver databases, thereby facilitating the application of penalty points to driving licences. Other issues arising from the case referred to are being studied at present, in consultation with the relevant agencies.
19. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her proposals to increase resources for the Cavan and Monaghan Garda Síochána Division and to enable the re-establishment of the drugs unit in both counties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10135/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel, among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
The overall response to the problem of drug misuse is set out in the National Drugs Strategy for the period 2009-2016. The Strategy provides a co-ordinated and comprehensive response to the issue of drug misuse and is very much founded on a partnership approach.
Further to the Strategy and in line with the Policing Plan, An Garda Síochána continues to prioritise tackling drugs and organised crime as a core focus of its work. In this regard multi-disciplinary approaches are utilised to ensure that those involved in illicit drugs activity are effectively targeted including through the use of drugs legislation, the Proceeds of Crime legislation, money laundering legislation and the powers of the Criminal Assets Bureau.
The recently merged National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau continues to lead out the policing strategy for tackling drugs supply. This approach allows for the co-ordinated use of Garda resources in tackling all forms of organised crime, including illicit drug activity nationwide.
I am informed that Garda management is satisfied that a comprehensive policing service in the Cavan/Monaghan Division continues to be delivered and that current structures in place meet the requirement to deliver an effective and efficient policing service to the community.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. Key to achieving this goal is the commitment in the Programme for Government, "A Programme for a Partnership Government" to continue the ongoing accelerated Garda recruitment programme with a view to increasing Garda numbers to 15,000.
As the Deputy will be aware since the Garda College reopened in September 2014, a total of 700 Garda trainees have been recruited with a further 450 planned to be recruited during the remainder of this year. So far 395 of the new Garda trainees have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream uniform duties nationwide. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that 10 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to Cavan/Monaghan Division.
I have been informed that as of the 31 March 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, there were 314 members assigned to the Cavan/Monaghan Garda Division.
It is expected that a further 300 trainees will attest by the end of this year which, taking account of projected retirements, will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,000 mark. We must, I believe, endeavour to make more rapid progress than this to reach our target of 15,000 and I will be engaging with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, in relation to increasing the planned annual intake this year and in coming years.
20. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of all station closures in County Waterford since 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10005/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support of this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued to An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
21. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of all station closures in south County Kildare since 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10001/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued for An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
22. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the Policing Authority review of the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations will include Stepaside in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10048/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support of this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued to An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
23. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of all station closures in counties Sligo and Leitrim since 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9999/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued for An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
24. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to progress legislative and other efforts to protect members of An Garda Síochána from the deliberate ramming of their vehicles by criminals, including considering the merits of the Ramming of Garda Vehicles Bill 2015 as part of these efforts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10014/16]
View answerThe Deputy will be aware that I consider the deliberate ramming of Garda vehicles to be a very serious matter in the context of road safety. The safety of the members of the Garda Síochána and the general public is of critical importance. It is imperative that Gardaí are protected in carrying out their work and that the law reflects and responds to the situations in which Gardaí find themselves.
The Deputy will recall at the debate of the Private Members Ramming of Garda Vehicles Bill 2015 on 11 December 2015 that I outlined the considerable wealth of legislation already in place to enable the prosecution of those who would seek to damage Garda property or, indeed, to injure members of the Garda Síochána by ramming their vehicles or otherwise. Furthermore, the Deputy will appreciate that, if the ramming of a Garda vehicle resulted in a death, an offence of Dangerous Driving causing Death would be considered, in certain circumstance an offence of attempted murder, murder or manslaughter may be considered applicable with the resultant penalties, including mandatory life imprisonment for a conviction of murder.
While a comprehensive body of legislation exists to provide for the prosecution of this type of assault, the Deputy will be aware that I am on record in terms of my support for the objective and intention of his Members Bill, and will of course keep this matter under ongoing review.
25. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of all station closures in south-west County Cork since 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10007/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support of this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued to An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
26. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to commit to a full-sworn commission of inquiry into allegations of rape and abuse made by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10148/16]
View answerThe particular case to which the Deputy refers was amongst those considered under the mechanism established for the independent review of certain allegations of Garda misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of certain allegations, which have been made to me as Minister for Justice and Equality, or the Taoiseach with a view to determining to what extent and in what manner further action may be required in each case. A panel consisting of two senior and five junior counsel was established for that purpose.
The outcome of the review of this case issued to the individual in question last December. The recommendation made by counsel was that I should take no further action in this case and the person was informed of the reasons for that outcome. I appreciate that it may difficult for the person in question to accept that, as Minister for Justice and Equality, I do not have the authority to review Garda investigations or decisions of the Director of Public Prosecutions nor do I have to authority to initiate criminal investigations or prosecutions. There are good and sound reasons for that which the Deputy well appreciates. I would remind the Deputy, nevertheless, that the case had been the subject of an earlier review by a senior counsel arising from which the then Minister decided against establishing any further inquiry. Notwithstanding that, the case was considered by the Independent Review Mechanism and I have already indicated that it recommended that I take no further action in the case.
With regard to the Independent Review Mechanism, I would like to emphasise that every case presented to the panel was reviewed by independent counsel, who made an objective recommendation. It was open to counsel to make any recommendation that they saw fit.
I want to stress the independence of this process. The cases were all considered by independent counsel, all selected on the basis of their experience of the criminal justice system.
Following their reviews of the papers in each case, counsel made recommendations to me as to whether or not further action should be carried out by me, and if so the nature of that action. In many cases the outcome was there was no further action which should or indeed which could be taken by me as Minister.
To ensure that all complainants received an accurate account of the process, I also appointed a retired judge, Mr Justice Roderick Murphy, to advise on the preparation of individual letters notifying each person of the outcome of the review in their particular case. I was concerned that these letters should not only set out the recommendation of counsel, but also outline as far as possible the reasons for the recommendation, subject to any legal constraints there may be. I made this appointment in order to provide complete reassurance on the probity and independence of this entire process, from start to finish.
I have repeatedly emphasised that the Independent Review Mechanism was not established to act as a Commission of Inquiry or Investigation. Nor was it designed to make findings. Its purpose was to triage the allegations to see whether further action was needed and what that action would be.
I have previously assured Deputies that where further investigation has been recommended by the review then that will occur. However, I have also pointed out that in a large proportion of cases, counsel would be likely to recommend that no further action could reasonably be taken. This has proven to be the case.
As I have already stated, I appreciate that some complainants will be disappointed or unhappy with the outcome but the review was independent and came to its own conclusions in all cases.
27. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to roll out a locally organised criminal assets bureau as piloted in Store Street in Dublin 2 in February 2016; and if expanding and fast-tracking this process will be an important step in targeting the unexplained wealth of middle and lower level drug dealers and protecting public safety in the areas affected most by criminality, given the recent spate in gangland violence. [10144/16]
View answerI understand the Deputy's question to refer to the work of the Divisional Assets Profiling Unit at Store Street.
To avoid any misconception, I should however clarify that the Divisional Assets Profiling Unit at Store Street is not a locally organised Criminal Assets Bureau.
To achieve nationwide coverage, the Criminal Assets Bureau has for some considerable time maintained a link with each of the Garda Divisions through the operation of the Divisional Assets Profiler Programme.
Under this Programme asset profilers are providing a criminal asset profiling service across the Garda Divisions in relation to persons or suspects operating within the area, with particular reference to those involved in serious and organised crime. The Bureau utilises the local knowledge supplied to it by the asset profilers which allows the Bureau to target the proceeds of crime in local communities. They also assist the Bureau with preparatory groundwork in advance of a full investigation and have recourse to the expertise and advice of the Bureau.
These profilers also assist in criminal investigations occurring within their own Divisions involving the targeting of persons suspected of being in possession of assets derived from criminal conduct.
The Divisional Assets Profiling unit at Store Street liaises with the Criminal Asset Bureau and has received training and guidance in the area of asset profiling. Members of the Unit are utilising this training, coupled with local knowledge and experience to target individuals who are dealing drugs in local communities. An initial number of targets have been identified and investigations are ongoing into these individuals. Files are being prepared for the Criminal Assets Bureau's attention where assessments will be considered.
The operation of the Assets Profiler Programme and its complement of asset profilers is kept under ongoing review. Following further training provided in 2015 by the Criminal Assets Bureau the number of trained Garda Asset Profilers now stands at 189.
28. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda Síochána stations and the number of gardaí in each station in County Mayo on 31 March 2011 and on 31 March 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9976/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of personnel among the Garda Regions, Divisions, and Districts. Garda management keep this distribution under continuing review taking into account crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the best possible use is made of these resources.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner, in summary, that there were 35 stations on 31 March 2011 with 313 members assigned to the Mayo Division. On 31 March 2016 there were 29 stations in the Mayo Division with 302 Gardaí assigned to the Division.
As the Deputy will understand, there is a significant amount of information available down to station / sub-district level which she has requested. For ease of reference I have provided a breakdown of the detailed information requested for the record.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. Key to achieving this goal is the commitment in the Programme for Government, "A Programme for a Partnership Government" to continue the ongoing accelerated Garda recruitment programme with a view to increasing Garda numbers to 15,000.
As the Deputy will be aware, since the Garda College reopened in September 2014, a total of 700 Garda trainees have been recruited with a further 450 planned to be recruited during the remainder of this year. So far 395 of the new Garda trainees have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream uniform duties nationwide. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that 5 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to Mayo Garda Division.
It is expected that a further 300 trainees will attest by the end of this year which, taking account of projected retirements, will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,000 mark.
We must, I believe, endeavour to make more rapid progress than this to reach our target of 15,000 and I will be engaging with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, in relation to increasing the planned annual intake this year and in coming years.
Mayo Division 31 March 2016
|
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BALLINA |
46 |
|
|
BONNICONLON |
1 |
|
|
CROSSMOLINA |
5 |
|
|
FOXFORD |
3 |
|
|
KILLALA |
2 |
|
|
BALLINA |
Total |
57 |
|
BALLYCROY |
1 |
|
|
BANGOR ERRIS |
3 |
|
|
BÉAL AN MHUIRTHEAD |
25 |
|
|
GLEANN NA MUAIDHE |
1 |
|
|
BELMULLET |
Total |
30 |
|
BALLA |
2 |
|
|
CASTLEBAR |
79 |
|
|
PARTRY |
2 |
|
|
CASTLEBAR |
Total |
83 |
|
BALLINDINE |
1 |
|
|
BALLINROBE |
7 |
|
|
BALLYHAUNIS |
10 |
|
|
CHARLESTOWN |
5 |
|
|
CLAREMORRIS |
37 |
|
|
CONG |
1 |
|
|
KILKELLY |
5 |
|
|
KILMAINE |
2 |
|
|
KILTIMAGH |
1 |
|
|
KNOCK |
1 |
|
|
SHRULE |
1 |
|
|
SWINFORD |
21 |
|
|
CLAREMORRIS |
Total |
92 |
|
ACHILL SOUND |
5 |
|
|
KEEL |
1 |
|
|
LOUISBURGH |
2 |
|
|
NEWPORT |
2 |
|
|
WESTPORT |
30 |
|
|
WESTPORT |
Total |
40 |
|
May Division |
Total |
302 |
Mayo Division 31 March 2011
|
District |
Station |
Total |
|
BALLINA |
48 |
|
|
BALLYCASTLE |
1 |
|
|
CROSSMOLINA |
4 |
|
|
KILLALA |
1 |
|
|
LAHARDANE |
1 |
|
|
BALLINA |
Total |
55 |
|
BALLYCROY |
1 |
|
|
BANGOR ERRIS |
3 |
|
|
BELLACORICK |
1 |
|
|
BELMULLET |
22 |
|
|
BLACKSOD |
1 |
|
|
GLENAMOY |
1 |
|
|
BELMULLET |
Total |
29 |
|
BALLA |
2 |
|
|
BALLYGLASS |
1 |
|
|
BALLYVARY |
1 |
|
|
CASTLEBAR |
70 |
|
|
*GARDA INFO SERVICES |
2 |
|
|
PARTRY |
2 |
|
|
TOURMAKEADY |
1 |
|
|
CASTLEBAR |
Total |
79 |
|
BALLINDINE |
1 |
|
|
BALLINROBE |
9 |
|
|
CLAREMORRIS |
38 |
|
|
CONG |
1 |
|
|
HOLLYMOUNT |
1 |
|
|
KNOCK |
2 |
|
|
SHRULE |
1 |
|
|
CLAREMORRIS |
Total |
53 |
|
BALLYHAUNIS |
9 |
|
|
CHARLESTOWN |
7 |
|
|
FOXFORD |
3 |
|
|
KILKELLY |
9 |
|
|
KILTIMAGH |
3 |
|
|
SWINFORD |
26 |
|
|
SWINFORD |
Total |
57 |
|
ACHILL SOUND |
3 |
|
|
LOUISBURGH |
2 |
|
|
MULRANNY |
1 |
|
|
NEWPORT |
3 |
|
|
WESTPORT |
31 |
|
|
WESTPORT |
Total |
40 |
|
Mayo Division |
Total |
313 |
*Garda Info Services is not a station
29. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to request the Policing Authority to review the dispersement of Garda Síochána stations and to assess the impact of the closure of Rush Garda station in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10003/16]
View answerThe Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that community policing is the embodiment of An Garda Síochána, providing a means of recognising that every community – both urban and rural – has its own concerns and expectations.
It commits the Government to ensuring visible, effective and responsive policing in every community, including the most minimal response times possible.
In support of this objective, the Policing Authority will be asked to oversee a review of, among other things, both the boundaries of Garda districts and the dispersement of Garda stations in rural areas, and in developing urban and suburban areas, with a view to ensuring both an efficient and optimum geographical distribution of stations and minimal response times, including taking account of station closures since 2012.
Under the Programme, the Government is committed to launching a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations both urban and rural to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order. This will be initiated within two months and I intend to consult with Commissioner and the Policing Authority to agree the process through which the Commissioner will identify the 6 stations that will be reopened under the pilot.
The Deputy will be aware that some 139 Garda stations were closed on foot of the implementation of the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme, which was implemented in 2012 and 2013, following the completion by An Garda Síochána of a comprehensive review of its district and station network.
As the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at her disposal, the review was undertaken with the objective of identifying opportunities to introduce strategic reforms to enhance service delivery, increase efficiency and streamline practices within the organisation. It concluded that a revised district and station network commensurate with the organisation’s resource base would best meet public demand.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
While I welcome the beneficial outcomes that have accrued to An Garda Síochána arising from the Station Rationalisation Programme, the Programme for Government recognises that there is a need for a review along the lines that I have outlined to the House.
My officials will shortly be in contact with the Policing Authority with a view to putting in place the necessary arrangements for the review and I will ensure that the outcome of the review is put before the House.
