Written Answers Nos. 61-73
61. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for counties Roscommon and Longford are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in counties Roscommon and Longford have access to the PULSE system; if not, the details of the stations without access; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34675/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for counties Roscommon and Longford reflect all crime incidents recorded by An Garda Síochána for those counties.
In recent times, the CSO has carried out two important reviews of the quality of crime statistics, following on concerns raised in the 2014 Report of the Garda Inspectorate on Crime Investigation. The outcome of these reviews are reflective of the quality of the crime figures for all areas of the country.
The first CSO Review, published in June 2015, helped to clarify and quantify many of the issues raised by the Inspectorate. The second review, published in September this year, indicated that the estimated impact of the issues identified in the Garda Inspectorate Report in relation to recorded crime is substantially less than at the first review. I am, however, determined that a strong focus remains on the need for improvements in this area.
I must explain that most crime incidents are recorded via the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC), based in Castlebar. This provides a round the clock service which enables Gardaí to phone in details of a crime incident, and specially trained staff in GISC facilitate its correct recording and classification on PULSE. As a result, a lack of access to PULSE in a particular Garda station should not prevent the accurate recording of crime data. In fact, the latest information from the Garda authorities is that 92% of crime incidents are recorded via GISC, with the balance being recorded by Gardaí directly on PULSE.
Some of the issues raised by the Garda Inspectorate concerned the need for procedures to ensure that the recording of crimes through GISC is maximised. As part of the work to implement the Inspectorate’s very broad ranging recommendations, An Garda Síochána has implemented new measures to improve data quality including a new Incident Recording process. This, together with important upgrades of the PULSE system during 2015, is supporting the improvement of Garda crime data as well as procedures for the supervision of investigations.
It will take time for the full effect of the upgrading of Garda systems to be reflected in the Crime Statistics. In this regard, I understand that the CSO intend to provide further analysis of crime data quality in due course which will help us to gauge, at that stage, how successful the ongoing work to achieve improvements in our crime statistics has been.
For its part, the Government remains committed to supporting this work and this is underlined by the investment of €330 million, including €205 million under the Capital Plan, in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
In relation to the specific question of PULSE access for Garda stations, as a number of Deputies have sought similar information in relation to various counties, I propose to provide those Deputies with a table with this information and to include the table in the Official Report.
I might add that the question of enhancing rural access to the Garda network is being examined as part of the Garda Síochána Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021. This includes plans to introduce mobile technology solutions to enable operational Gardaí to access core information systems, including PULSE, while on duty and away from Garda stations.
However, as I have explained, the availability of PULSE in a given Garda station is not a prerequisite for the accurate recording and classification of crime data.
|
Division |
Names of Garda Stations in these areas without access to PULSE |
|
Roscommon/Longford |
Drumlish |
|
Kenagh |
|
|
Smear |
|
|
Athleague |
|
|
Clonark |
|
|
Frenchpark |
|
|
Keadue |
|
|
Tulsk |
|
|
Ballinlough |
62. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in each in west Cork on 31 October 2010 and on 31 October 2016; the proportion of the proposed 800 additional recruits in 2017 that are likely to be assigned to west Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34692/16]
View answerThis 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. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve of approximately 300.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 will require some 3,200 new Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next four years in addition to the 1,200 that will have been recruited by the end of this year since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014. This is an ambitious target and will require a continuous pipeline of suitable candidates. I am pleased to say that the recruitment campaign launched by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner last September, the second campaign this year, again received a strong response.
Since the reopening of the Garda College, 534 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am informed that of these, 5 have been assigned to the West Cork Division. Another 150 trainee Garda will attest this Thursday, 17 November which will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,000 mark by year end.
In so far as the allocation of newly attested Gardaí next year is concerned, this is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I, as Minister has no direct role in it. I am assured by the Commissioner that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of resources. However, it is important to keep in mind that newly attested Gardaí have a further 16 months of practical and class-room based training to complete in order to receive their BA in Applied Policing. To ensure that they are properly supported and supervised and have opportunities to gain the breadth of policing experience required, the Commissioner's policy is to allocate them to specially designated training stations which have the required structures and resources in place, including Garda tutors.
The Government's plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I expect that the West Cork Division, like all other Garda Divisions will benefit from these new resources becoming available.
For ease of reference I have provided a breakdown of the detailed information requested in relation to the number of Garda stations and number of Garda assigned to the West Cork Division on 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
CORK WEST DIVISION 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BANDON DISTRICT |
BALLINEEN |
2 |
|
BALLINHASSIG |
2 |
|
|
BALLINSPITTLE |
0 |
|
|
BALLYFEARD |
1 |
|
|
BANDON |
84 |
|
|
INNISHANNON |
1 |
|
|
KILBRITTAIN |
1 |
|
|
KINSALE |
16 |
|
|
TIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
108 |
|
|
BANTRY DISTRICT |
ADRIGOLE |
1 |
|
BALLYDEHOB |
1 |
|
|
BANTRY |
36 |
|
|
CASTLETOWNBERE |
4 |
|
|
DRIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
|
DURRUS |
1 |
|
|
GLENGARRIFF |
1 |
|
|
GOLEEN |
1 |
|
|
KEALKIL |
0 |
|
|
SCHULL |
4 |
|
|
TOTAL |
50 |
|
|
CLONAKILTY DISTRICT |
BALLYGURTEEN |
0 |
|
BALTIMORE |
1 |
|
|
CASTLETOWNSEND |
1 |
|
|
CLONAKILTY |
28 |
|
|
DRINAGH |
1 |
|
|
DUNMANWAY |
8 |
|
|
ROSSCARBERY |
2 |
|
|
SKIBBEREEN |
10 |
|
|
TOTAL |
51 |
|
|
KANTURK DISTRICT |
BALLYDESMOND |
0 |
|
BOHERBUE |
1 |
|
|
KANTURK |
33 |
|
|
KNOCKNAGREE |
1 |
|
|
MEELIN |
1 |
|
|
MILLSTREET |
12 |
|
|
NEWMARKET |
3 |
|
|
RATHMORE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
52 |
|
|
MACROOM DISTRICT |
BALLINGEARY |
1 |
|
BALLYVOURNEY |
3 |
|
|
COACHFORD |
2 |
|
|
CROOKSTOWN |
6 |
|
|
INCHIGEELA |
1 |
|
|
MACROOM |
42 |
|
|
STUAKE |
1 |
|
|
TARELTON |
1 |
|
|
Total |
57 |
|
|
CORK WEST TOTAL |
43 Stations |
318 |
|
CORK WEST DIVISION 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BANDON DISTRICT |
BALLINEEN |
2 |
|
|
BALLINHASSIG |
2 |
|
|
BANDON |
79 |
|
|
INNISHANNON |
1 |
|
|
KILBRITTAIN |
1 |
|
|
KINSALE |
15 |
|
|
TIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
TOTAL |
101 |
|
|
BANTRY DISTRICT |
BANTRY |
33 |
|
|
CASTLETOWNBERE |
5 |
|
|
DRIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
|
DURRUS |
1 |
|
|
GLENGARRIFF |
1 |
|
|
KEALKIL |
1 |
|
|
SCHULL |
4 |
|
TOTAL |
46 |
|
|
CLONAKILTY DISTRICT |
BALTIMORE |
1 |
|
|
CLONAKILTY |
34 |
|
|
DRINAGH |
1 |
|
|
DUNMANWAY |
11 |
|
|
ROSSCARBERY |
1 |
|
|
SKIBBEREEN |
12 |
|
TOTAL |
60 |
|
|
MACROOM DISTRICT |
BAILE BHUIRNE |
2 |
|
|
BÉAL ÁTHA AN GHAORTHA |
2 |
|
|
COACHFORD |
1 |
|
|
CROOKSTOWN |
10 |
|
|
MACROOM |
38 |
|
|
MILLSTREET |
14 |
|
|
RATHMORE |
1 |
|
|
STUAKE |
1 |
|
|
TARELTON |
1 |
|
TOTAL |
70 |
|
|
CORK WEST TOTAL |
29 Stations |
277 |
63. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for County Laois are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in County Laois have access to the PULSE system; if not, the details of the stations without access; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34721/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for County Laois reflect all crime incidents recorded by An Garda Síochána for that county.
In recent times, the CSO has carried out two important reviews of the quality of crime statistics, following on concerns raised in the 2014 Report of the Garda Inspectorate on Crime Investigation. The outcome of these reviews are reflective of the quality of the crime figures for all areas of the country.
The first CSO Review, published in June 2015, helped to clarify and quantify many of the issues raised by the Inspectorate. The second review, published in September this year, indicated that the estimated impact of the issues identified in the Garda Inspectorate Report in relation to recorded crime is substantially less than at the first review. I am, however, determined that a strong focus remains on the need for improvements in this area.
I must explain that most crime incidents are recorded via the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC), based in Castlebar. This provides a round the clock service which enables Gardaí to phone in details of a crime incident, and specially trained staff in GISC facilitate its correct recording and classification on PULSE. As a result, a lack of access to PULSE in a particular Garda station should not prevent the accurate recording of crime data. In fact, the latest information from the Garda authorities is that 92% of crime incidents are recorded via GISC, with the balance being recorded by Gardaí directly on PULSE.
Some of the issues raised by the Garda Inspectorate concerned the need for procedures to ensure that the recording of crimes through GISC is maximised. As part of the work to implement the Inspectorate’s very broad ranging recommendations, An Garda Síochána has implemented new measures to improve data quality including a new Incident Recording process. This, together with important upgrades of the PULSE system during 2015, is supporting the improvement of Garda crime data as well as procedures for the supervision of investigations.
It will take time for the full effect of the upgrading of Garda systems to be reflected in the Crime Statistics. In this regard, I understand that the CSO intend to provide further analysis of crime data quality in due course which will help us to gauge, at that stage, how successful the ongoing work to achieve improvements in our crime statistics has been.
For its part, the Government remains committed to supporting this work and this is underlined by the investment of €330 million, including €205 million under the Capital Plan, in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
In relation to the specific question of PULSE access for Garda stations, as a number of Deputies have sought similar information in relation to various counties, I propose to provide those Deputies with a table with this information and to include the table in the Official Report.
I might add that the question of enhancing rural access to the Garda network is being examined as part of the Garda Síochána Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021. This includes plans to introduce mobile technology solutions to enable operational Gardaí to access core information systems, including PULSE, while on duty and away from Garda stations.
However, as I have explained, the availability of PULSE in a given Garda station is not a prerequisite for the accurate recording and classification of crime data.
|
Division |
Names of Garda Stations in these areas without access to PULSE |
|
Co. Laois |
Clonaslee |
|
Durrow |
|
|
Arles |
|
|
Borris-In-Ossory |
64. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the actions taken by her over the past two years to ensure that gardaí who had made protected disclosures were not subjected to bullying and harassment; if she is satisfied with the outcome of those actions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34558/16]
View answerAs I have advised the Deputy previously, there has been significant change in the procedures for members of the Gardaí who wish to report allegations of wrongdoing.
The Protected Disclosures 2014 Act was part of the then Government's comprehensive approach to enhancing the protections available to whistleblowers, including members of the Garda Síochána. Under the Act, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) is now the prescribed body authorised to receive protected disclosures on Garda matters.
Accordingly, members of the Garda Síochána may communicate their concerns to the Garda Commissioner, as their employer if they so choose, or they may make a disclosure directly to GSOC. Where a protected disclosure is made to GSOC, the Act provides that GSOC may, if it appears to it desirable in the public interest to do so, investigate the disclosure.
It is important to recognise the very significant fact that a member of the Gardaí who makes a disclosure in accordance with the Act is entitled to all the protections provided for whistleblowers in the Act. These protections include protection from having their identity revealed, protection from dismissal and protection from being penalised in their employment as a result of having made a protected disclosure.
The Deputy is no doubt aware of the measures that the Garda Commissioner outlined at her meeting last June with the Policing Authority. The Garda Síochána have published their Protected Disclosures Policy and all Garda Members and civilians have been informed of this policy. In addition the Garda Commissioner has appointed a Protected Disclosures Manager who will be supported with a dedicated and properly trained team. The Garda Síochána have been working with Transparency International Ireland and other external providers to create an environment to ensure that whistleblowers are protected and supported.
In light of the public interest in An Garda Síochána having robust policies and procedures in place to support and protect whistleblowers and to ensure that their complaints or allegations are fully investigated, I signalled during the Dáil debate on the O'Higgins Report that I would refer certain matters to the independent Policing Authority. To that end, I wrote to the Authority on 2 June 2016 requesting that in accordance with section 62O(6) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended) they submit a report on the policies and procedures in place in An Garda Síochána to deal with whistleblowers/whistleblowing. I also asked that they make any recommendations that they consider appropriate in order to ensure that the policies and procedures in place are appropriate and can provide assurance that whistleblowers can make complaints or allegations in a safe environment where their complaints or allegations are properly investigated.
The Policing Authority has completed its review and reported to me last week. The Report was published on my Department's website on Friday and has been laid before both Houses in accordance with the Act. The Report contains a number of recommendations almost all of which have been accepted by the Commissioner and I understand that a revised version of the Policy will be published by the Commissioner shortly. The Commissioner is committed to providing an environment in which protected disclosures can be made in full knowledge that persons making such disclosures will be supported and protected in the workplace.
All of this points to significant changes in the regime for making protected disclosures by members of the Gardaí and the significant protections afforded to those who make protected disclosures.
The Garda Commissioner has assured me that she is committed to providing a positive and supportive working environment for all Garda personnel. An Garda Síochána's Dignity at Work Policy, entitled “Working Together to Create a Positive Working Environment", outlines the policy and procedures for dealing with Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Bullying in the Workplace. The main objective of the policy is to achieve a safe and harmonious working environment that encourages and supports the right to dignity at work. I am informed that the Commissioner has established an internal Garda Working Group to review the current practice and policies in place in An Garda Síochána and this work is currently ongoing.
65. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason she has not introduced legislation to provide legal recognition of the Traveller community as an ethnic group in law. [34826/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be already be aware, there is a comprehensive consultation process underway, led by my Department, to develop a new National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy to improve the situation for the Traveller and Roma communities in Ireland. Phase 1 (identification of key themes for the new Strategy) and Phase 2 (identification and agreement of high level objectives under each agreed theme) of that consultation process have been completed. The final phase, Phase 3 (identification of detailed actions to achieve each agreed objective, with associated time-scales, key performance indicators, institutional responsibilities and monitoring arrangements), is currently underway. This process will provide a new set of specific, cross-Departmental actions that need to be taken to bring about a real improvement in quality of life for Travellers and Roma. It is intended that the new Inclusion Strategy will run from 2016 to 2020 and that it will be in place later this year. As part of Phase 3, regional public consultations took place from 22 September 2016 - 27 September 2016; I attended two of those consultations (in Dublin and in Athlone, respectively) and I am delighted to report that overall attendance and participation were encouraging and positive. Feedback from those consultation sessions is being collated by my officials and the draft Inclusion Strategy will be updated accordingly. I plan to submit the final draft of the Inclusion Strategy to Government shortly for consideration and sign-off.
The issue of recognition of Travellers as an ethnic group is being considered in the context of the development of the Inclusion Strategy. In September 2015, my predecessor brought a paper to Cabinet Committee on Social Policy on the question of recognising Travellers as a distinct ethnic group within Irish society. This followed a process of dialogue with the national-level Traveller NGOs during 2015, which culminated in the presentation of an agreed position paper by them and confirmation that there are no legal or legislative or expenditure implications arising from such recognition. As such, there are no plans to introduce new legislation in this regard. The key benefit is that recognition of the distinct heritage, culture and identity of Travellers and their special place in Irish society would be hugely symbolically important to Traveller pride, to Traveller self-esteem and to overcoming the legacy of marginalisation and discrimination that the community has experienced. Such a symbolic gesture – as the Traveller NGO paper argues – creates a new platform for positive engagement by the Traveller community and Government together in seeking sustainable solutions based on respect and honest dialogue.
I have had a long standing interest in this area, most notably through my chairing of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality when it produced its report on the Recognition of Traveller Ethnicity (April 2014). When I spoke earlier this year at the Traveller Pride awards, I stressed that we need to broaden the discussion on this issue. The debate needs to be taken forward in an inclusive way. My officials and I are currently working to advance this issue with national Traveller organisations in this regard.
66. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if her attention was drawn to a recent documentary (details supplied); when the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill will be enacted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34749/16]
View answerI am aware of the documentary referred to by the Deputy which highlighted some of the difficulties encountered by many victims, and victims of sexual offences in particular, in the course of criminal proceedings.
The Government approved the General Scheme of the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill in July 2015. This landmark new Bill will introduce for the first time statutory rights for victims of crime. The Bill is being drafted as a priority and I expect to publish it during the current Dáil session.
The Bill will transpose into Irish law Directive 2012/29/EU establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime fulfilling a commitment in the Programme for Government to enact legislation to strengthen the rights of victims of crime and their families.
At an operational level, arrangements have been put in place to ensure that rights conferred by the Directive are provided to crime victims both within existing legislation and on a non-statutory basis. In practical terms this has meant that most of the rights conferred by the Directive are currently being made available for victims.
67. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in the Dublin western metropolitan region on 31 October 2010 and on 31 October 2016; the proportion of the proposed 800 additional recruits in 2017 that are likely to be assigned to the Dublin western metropolitan region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34736/16]
View answerThis 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. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve of approximately 300.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 will require some 3,200 new Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next four years in addition to the 1,200 that will have been recruited by the end of this year since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014. This is an ambitious target and will require a continuous pipeline of suitable candidates. I am pleased to say that the recruitment campaign launched by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner last September, the second campaign this year, again received a strong response.
Since the reopening of the Garda College, 534 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am informed that of these, 50 have been assigned to the DMR West Division. Another 150 trainee Garda will attest this Thursday, 17 November which will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,000 mark by year end.
In so far as the allocation of newly attested Gardaí next year is concerned, this is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I, as Minister have no direct role in it. I am assured by the Commissioner that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of resources. However, it is important to keep in mind that newly attested Gardaí have a further 16 months of practical and class-room based training to complete in order to receive their BA in Applied Policing. To ensure that they are properly supported and supervised and have opportunities to gain the breadth of policing experience required, the Commissioner's policy is to allocate them to specially designated training stations which have the required structures and resources in place, including Garda tutors.
The Government's plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I expect that the DMR West Division, like all other Garda Divisions will benefit from these new resources becoming available.
For ease of reference I have provided a breakdown of the detailed information requested in relation to the number of Garda stations and number of Garda assigned to the DMR West Division on 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
D.M.R. WEST 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BLANCHARDSTOWN |
BLANCHARDSTOWN |
147 |
|
|
CABRA |
61 |
|
|
FINGLAS |
106 |
|
TOTAL |
314 |
|
|
CLONDALKIN |
BALLYFERMOT |
83 |
|
|
CLONDALKIN |
92 |
|
|
RATHCOOLE |
20 |
|
TOTAL |
195 |
|
|
LUCAN |
LUCAN |
73 |
|
|
RONANSTOWN |
89 |
|
TOTAL |
162 |
|
|
D.M.R. WEST |
8 Stations |
671 |
|
D.M.R. WEST 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BLANCHARDSTOWN |
BLANCHARDSTOWN |
197 |
|
CABRA |
70 |
|
|
FINGLAS |
124 |
|
|
Total |
391 |
|
|
CLONDALKIN |
BALLYFERMOT |
100 |
|
CLONDALKIN |
97 |
|
|
RATHCOOLE |
29 |
|
|
Total |
226 |
|
|
LUCAN |
LUCAN |
82 |
|
RONANSTOWN |
95 |
|
|
Total |
177 |
|
|
Total |
8 Stations |
794 |
68. Deputy James Lawless asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in each in County Kildare on 31 October 2010 and on 31 October 2016; the proportion of the proposed 800 additional recruits in 2017 that are likely to be assigned to County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34716/16]
View answerThis 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. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve of approximately 300.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 will require some 3,200 new Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next four years in addition to the 1,200 that will have been recruited by the end of this year since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014. This is an ambitious target and will require a continuous pipeline of suitable candidates. I am pleased to say that the recruitment campaign launched by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner last September, the second campaign this year, again received a strong response.
Since the reopening of the Garda College, 534 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am informed that of these, 25 have been assigned to the Kildare Division. Another 150 trainee Garda will attest this Thursday, 17 November which will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,000 mark by year end.
In so far as the allocation of newly attested Gardaí next year is concerned, this is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I, as Minister have no direct role in it. I am assured by the Commissioner that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of resources. However, it is important to keep in mind that newly attested Gardaí have a further 16 months of practical and class-room based training to complete in order to receive their BA in Applied Policing. To ensure that they are properly supported and supervised and have opportunities to gain the breadth of policing experience required, the Commissioner's policy is to allocate them to specially designated training stations which have the required structures and resources in place, including Garda tutors.
The Government's plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I expect that the Kildare Division, like all other Garda Divisions will benefit from these new resources becoming available.
For ease of reference I have provided a breakdown of the detailed information requested in relation to the number of Garda stations and number of Garda assigned to the Kildare Division on the 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
KILDARE DIVISION 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
KILDARE |
ATHY |
28 |
|
BALLYTORE |
2 |
|
|
CASTLEDERMOT |
3 |
|
|
KILDARE |
34 |
|
|
MONASTEREVIN |
4 |
|
|
NEWBRIDGE |
45 |
|
|
RATHANGAN |
4 |
|
|
TOTAL |
120 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
CARBURY |
4 |
|
CELBRIDGE |
20 |
|
|
KILCOCK |
8 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
35 |
|
|
MAYNOOTH |
16 |
|
|
TOTAL |
83 |
|
|
NAAS |
BALLYMORE EUSTACE |
1 |
|
CLANE |
11 |
|
|
KILCULLEN |
2 |
|
|
KILL |
4 |
|
|
NAAS |
102 |
|
|
ROBERTSTOWN |
5 |
|
|
TOTAL |
125 |
|
|
KILDARE |
18 Stations |
328 |
|
KILDARE DIVISION 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
KILDARE |
ATHY |
27 |
|
|
CASTLEDERMOT |
4 |
|
|
KILDARE |
33 |
|
|
MONASTEREVIN |
4 |
|
|
NEWBRIDGE |
48 |
|
|
RATHANGAN |
3 |
|
TOTAL |
119 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
CARBURY |
7 |
|
|
CELBRIDGE |
11 |
|
|
KILCOCK |
9 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
37 |
|
|
MAYNOOTH |
14 |
|
TOTAL |
78 |
|
|
NAAS |
CLANE |
7 |
|
|
KILCULLEN |
2 |
|
|
NAAS |
98 |
|
|
ROBERTSTOWN |
3 |
|
|
TOTAL |
110 |
|
KILDARE |
15 Stations |
307 |
69. Deputy James Browne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for County Wexford are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in County Wexford have access to the PULSE system; if not, the details of the stations without access; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34702/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for County Wexford reflect all crime incidents recorded by An Garda Síochána for that county.
In recent times, the CSO has carried out two important reviews of the quality of crime statistics, following on concerns raised in the 2014 Report of the Garda Inspectorate on Crime Investigation. The outcome of these reviews are reflective of the quality of the crime figures for all areas of the country.
The first CSO Review, published in June 2015, helped to clarify and quantify many of the issues raised by the Inspectorate. The second review, published in September this year, indicated that the estimated impact of the issues identified in the Garda Inspectorate Report in relation to recorded crime is substantially less than at the first review. I am, however, determined that a strong focus remains on the need for improvements in this area.
I must explain that most crime incidents are recorded via the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC), based in Castlebar. This provides a round the clock service which enables Gardaí to phone in details of a crime incident, and specially trained staff in GISC facilitate its correct recording and classification on PULSE. As a result, a lack of access to PULSE in a particular Garda station should not prevent the accurate recording of crime data. In fact, the latest information from the Garda authorities is that 92% of crime incidents are recorded via GISC, with the balance being recorded by Gardaí directly on PULSE.
Some of the issues raised by the Garda Inspectorate concerned the need for procedures to ensure that the recording of crimes through GISC is maximised. As part of the work to implement the Inspectorate’s very broad ranging recommendations, An Garda Síochána has implemented new measures to improve data quality including a new Incident Recording process. This, together with important upgrades of the PULSE system during 2015, is supporting the improvement of Garda crime data as well as procedures for the supervision of investigations.
It will take time for the full effect of the upgrading of Garda systems to be reflected in the Crime Statistics. In this regard, I understand that the CSO intend to provide further analysis of crime data quality in due course which will help us to gauge, at that stage, how successful the ongoing work to achieve improvements in our crime statistics has been.
For its part, the Government remains committed to supporting this work and this is underlined by the investment of €330 million, including €205 million under the Capital Plan, in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
In relation to the specific question of PULSE access for Garda stations, as a number of Deputies have sought similar information in relation to various counties, I propose to provide those Deputies with a table with this information and to include the table in the Official Report.
I might add that the question of enhancing rural access to the Garda network is being examined as part of the Garda Síochána Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021. This includes plans to introduce mobile technology solutions to enable operational Gardaí to access core information systems, including PULSE, while on duty and away from Garda stations.
However, as I have explained, the availability of PULSE in a given Garda station is not a prerequisite for the accurate recording and classification of crime data.
|
Division |
Names of Garda Stations in these areas without access to PULSE |
|
Co. Wexford |
Taghmon |
|
Castlebridge |
|
|
Kilmore Quay |
|
|
Glynn |
|
|
Blackwater |
|
|
Clonroche |
|
|
Carrick-on-Bannow |
|
|
Carrickbyrne |
70. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when a judicial council will be established; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34838/16]
View answerIt will come as no surprise to the Deputy when I say that, like its predecessors, this Government is firmly of the view that it is necessary to put in place a structure to deal with allegations of judicial misconduct which fall below the level which might warrant invoking Article 35.4 of the Constitution. The Government is also firmly of the view that it is necessary to provide a platform for the promotion of excellence and high standards of conduct by judges.
The Deputy will recall that the current Legislation Programme includes the Judicial Council Bill among those Bills whose publication this Session is a priority. Work on the drafting of the Bill is continuing in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General and my Department is working closely with that Office to bring that work to a timely conclusion in order to ensure publication within the timeframe set out in the Legislation Programme. Furthermore, my Department continues to be engaged in extensive consultations both with the Judiciary and the Courts Service in relation to ongoing drafting work. The Bill has benefitted from past review by the judiciary who considered it as part of the work of the Interim Judicial Council which has been established pending the Bill’s enactment.
The Bill, when published, will provide for the establishment of a Judicial Council and Board of that Council. It will also provide for the establishment of a Judicial Conduct Committee, the membership of which will include lay persons, to facilitate the investigation of allegations of judicial misconduct. That Committee will also have a role in preparing guidelines concerning judicial conduct and ethics. Matters relating to the training of judges will also be addressed.
The Government continues to be committed to progressing this legislation as speedily as possible. While it is regarded as a priority by the Government it has, in the past, had to give way to other pressing and urgent legislative requirements, some of which arose from our Troika commitments and some of which concerned important social and societal issues such as the establishment of the Court of Appeal and last year's Marriage Referendum. I can assure the Deputy that work on the Bill is very advanced indeed and I look forward to its contents being debated by the Oireachtas. I would hope that it will be possible to begin that debate early in 2017.
71. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the investigation into the disappearance of a person (details supplied). [34828/16]
View answerThe Deputy will appreciate that management of particular Garda investigations are matters in the first instance for the Garda authorities and I have no direct role in this regard. I can, however, assure the Deputy that I am aware of the various concerns which have been raised about the case referred to.
I am advised that the Garda investigation in relation to the case referred to is ongoing and that the Garda Commissioner has requested the Serious Crime Review Team (SCRT) to examine the case, as a matter of priority, ensuring that all avenues of enquiry are fully explored and addressed. I expect to receive a further update from the Garda authorities after the SCRT completes its examination.
In this context, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to make any more detailed comment at this time.
72. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the details of all companies involved in contracts for direct provision, including moneys paid to these companies each year over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34854/16]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy in relation to details of centre location, contractor and occupancy is set out in a table:
Contractors for Accommodation Centres
|
COUNTY |
CENTRE |
ADDRESS |
CONTRACTOR |
State or privately owned |
|
Clare |
Knockalisheen |
Meelick |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
State |
|
Cork |
Ashbourne Hse |
Glounthaune |
Barlow Properties |
Private |
|
|
Kinsale Road |
Cork City |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
State |
|
|
Glenvera |
Wellington Road |
Bideau Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Millstreet |
Millstreet |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
Private |
|
|
Clonakilty Lodge |
Clonakilty, Co. Cork |
D and A Ltd |
Private |
|
Dublin |
The Towers |
The Ninth Lock, Clondalkin, |
Fazyard Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Georgian Court |
77-79 Lower Gardiner St. |
Old George Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Staircase |
21 Aungier Street |
Mo Bhaile Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Hatch Hall |
28 Lower Hatch Street |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
Private |
|
|
Balseskin |
St. Margarets, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
Private |
|
|
Watergate House |
11-14 Usher's Quay, Dublin 8 |
Maison Builders Ltd |
Private |
|
Galway |
Eglinton |
The Proms, Salthill |
Maplestar Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Great Western House |
Eyre Square |
Shaun Hennelly |
Private |
|
Kerry |
Atlas House (Killarney) |
Killarney |
OFM Limited |
State |
|
|
Atlas House (Tralee) |
Tralee |
OFM Limited |
State |
|
|
Johnston Marina |
Tralee |
OFM Limited |
State |
|
|
Park Lodge |
Killarney |
OFM Limited |
State |
|
Kildare |
Eyrepowell |
Newbridge |
Peachport Ltd |
Private |
|
Laois |
Montague |
Emo, Portlaoise |
Fazyard Ltd |
Private |
|
Limerick |
Hanratty's |
Glentworth Street, Limerick |
Birch Rentals Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Westbourne |
Dock Road |
Westbourne Holiday Hostel Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Mount Trenchard |
Foynes, Co. Limerick |
Baycaster Ltd |
Private |
|
Longford |
Richmond Court |
Richmond Street, Longford |
Mint Horizon Ltd |
Private |
|
Louth |
Carroll Village |
Dundalk |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
Private |
|
Mayo |
The Old Convent |
Ballyhaunis |
Bridgestock |
Private |
|
Meath |
Mosney |
Mosney |
Mosney PLC |
Private |
|
Monaghan |
St. Patricks |
Monaghan |
Tattonward Ltd |
Private |
|
Sligo |
Globe House |
Chapel Hill |
Bridgestock |
Private |
|
Waterford |
Atlantic House |
Tramore, Co. Waterford |
Atlantic Blue Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Ocean View |
Tramore, Co. Waterford |
Ocean View Accommodation Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Birchwood |
Ballytruckle Road |
Stompool Investments Ltd |
Private |
|
|
Viking House |
Coffee House Lane |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
Private |
|
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
State |
Extensive and detailed information on the amount paid by my Department to each company contracted to provide direct provision accommodation every year up to and including 2013 can be found on the RIA website www.ria.gov.ie under the 'Contract Values 2000 - 2013 inclusive (January 2016)' section of the website.
The Deputy will appreciate that it is not appropriate to provide values for current contracts entered into by my Department. Negotiations take place with a number of commercial entities on an ongoing basis with a clear focus on achieving the best value for money in respect of each contract. It is not in the interests of yielding best value for the taxpayer that details of current individual contracts are made available to other commercial bodies who are, or may be in the future, engaged in these negotiations.
73. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to have the issue of commercial rates exemption extended to all child care facilities in order to improve the sustainability of centres and offer a pathway to reduce costs on parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33533/16]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that the Commissioner of Valuation is independent in the exercise of his duties under the Valuation Acts 2001- 2105 and the making of valuations for rating purposes is his sole responsibility. I, as Minister for Justice and Equality, have no function in decisions in this regard.
The Valuation Act 2001 as amended by the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015 provides that all buildings used or developed for any purpose, including constructions affixed thereto, are rateable unless expressly exempted under Schedule 4 of the Act. Such exempt buildings would principally include those used for public worship, education and health care provided on a not-for-profit basis, and charitable purposes. In general, the Act maintains the long-standing position that all commercial properties - including all private childcare facilities such as play schools, pre-schools, crèches and Montessori schools - are liable for rates.
I understand that inconsistency in the approach to the exemption from rates for childcare and education facilities and calls to exempt all such providers were among the issues raised at a number of stages during the passage of the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015. As a result, the Government approved an amendment to the Bill, to insert into Schedule 4 of the Valuation Act 2001 an exemption from rates for properties occupied by parties that provide early childhood care and education on a not-for-profit basis. This extension of the childcare and education exemption removed an anomaly that previously existed where those that provided childcare and education on a charitable basis were exempt but those that did so on a not-for-profit basis were not. Since the commencement of the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015, the Valuation Office has been updating the valuation lists to give effect to this extension of the exemption so that it became effective for qualifying providers in 2016.
The decision taken by Government to extend the exemption from rates for early childcare and education was taken having considered the views of stakeholders in the sector. As outlined in Oireachtas debates during the passage of the legislation, key valuation principles have to be respected to retain the integrity and equity of a system that is a significant source of funding for Local Authorities. One of those principles is that properties of occupiers that operate with the intention of making a profit are rateable. There are a variety of other more appropriate means through which Government can and does support the provision of such services. Making exception to core, long-standing valuation principles can have a far reaching negative impact on the rates system and consequently a far reaching impact on Local Government funding.
In addition to the exemption of those that provide childcare and early education on a not-for-profit basis, paragraph 10 of Schedule 4 of the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015 also exempts from rates childcare facilities that only provide the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme.
The Acts are quite specific about the range of exemptions that can be allowed by the Commissioner, who has no discretionary latitude to grant exemptions not covered by Schedule 4. As a matter of course, the Valuation Office examines all claimant cases on their individual merits by reference to the relevant statutory provisions governing the operation of the Valuation Acts as they relate to pre-school childcare facilities and all other categories of properties.
Regarding the payment of rates by individual ratepayers, the Deputy will be aware that under Irish law there is a distinct separation of function between the valuation of rateable property and the setting and collection of commercial rates. The amount of rates payable by a ratepayer in any calendar year is a product of the valuation set by the Valuation Office multiplied by the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) decided annually by the elected members of the local authority. The latter is a reserved function of the elected members and the Commissioner of Valuation has no function in this regard.
Private childcare facilities which are operated for profit, form part of the rateable valuation base on a nationwide basis. The exemption from rateability of such facilities would reduce local authority revenues, which if it were not to entail an increase in Exchequer funding of local authorities, would have to be made good by imposing a corresponding increase on the remaining ratepayers. Accordingly, there are no plans at this time to extend the exemption from rates to for-profit childcare facilities, which as I have indicated would represent a significant departure from core valuation principles. However, the Deputy will be aware of the wide range of measures being pursued by my colleague the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in relation to the childcare sector.
