Written Answers Nos. 88-100
88. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in each in counties Carlow and Kilkenny 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 counties Carlow and Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34661/16]
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, 20 have been assigned to the Kilkenny/Carlow 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 classroom 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 Kilkenny Carlow 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 Kilkenny/Carlow Division on 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW DIVISION 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
CARLOW DISTRICT |
BALLON |
1 |
|
BORRIS |
2 |
|
|
CARLOW |
79 |
|
|
HACKETSTOWN |
1 |
|
|
LEIGHLINBRIDGE |
2 |
|
|
MUINEBHEAG |
11 |
|
|
MYSHALL |
1 |
|
|
RATHVILLY |
1 |
|
|
TULLOW |
18 |
|
|
Total |
116 |
|
|
KILKENNY DISTRICT |
BALLYRAGGET |
0 |
|
CALLAN |
6 |
|
|
CASTLECOMER |
14 |
|
|
FRESHFORD |
1 |
|
|
JOHNSTOWN |
3 |
|
|
KILKENNY |
109 |
|
|
URLINGFORD |
1 |
|
|
Total |
134 |
|
|
THOMASTOWN DISTRICT |
BALLYHALE |
1 |
|
BENNETSBRIDGE |
1 |
|
|
GLENMORE |
1 |
|
|
GORESBRIDGE |
2 |
|
|
GRAIGUENAMANAGH |
7 |
|
|
INISTIOGE |
1 |
|
|
KILMACOW |
1 |
|
|
KILMOGANNY |
1 |
|
|
MOONCOIN |
8 |
|
|
MULLINAVAT |
6 |
|
|
PILTOWN |
2 |
|
|
STONYFORD |
1 |
|
|
THOMASTOWN |
43 |
|
|
Total |
75 |
|
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW TOTAL |
29 Stations |
325 |
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
CARLOW |
BALLON |
1 |
|
BORRIS |
2 |
|
|
CARLOW |
78 |
|
|
HACKETSTOWN |
1 |
|
|
MUINEBHEAG |
10 |
|
|
MYSHALL |
1 |
|
|
RATHVILLY |
1 |
|
|
TULLOW |
15 |
|
|
TOTAL |
109 |
|
|
KILKENNY |
CALLAN |
6 |
|
CASTLECOMER |
11 |
|
|
KILKENNY |
112 |
|
|
URLINGFORD |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
131 |
|
|
THOMASTOWN |
BENNETSBRIDGE |
1 |
|
GLENMORE |
1 |
|
|
GORESBRIDGE |
2 |
|
|
GRAIGUENAMANAGH |
4 |
|
|
KILMACOW |
1 |
|
|
KILMOGANNY |
1 |
|
|
MOONCOIN |
11 |
|
|
MULLINAVAT |
2 |
|
|
PILTOWN |
1 |
|
|
THOMASTOWN |
33 |
|
|
TOTAL |
57 |
|
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW |
22 Stations |
297 |
89. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in the Dublin northern 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 northern metropolitan region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34732/16]
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, 41 and 45 have been assigned to the DMR North Division and the DMR North Central Division respectively. 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 North Division and the DMR North Central Divisions, 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 North Division and the DMR North Central Division on 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
DMR NORTH 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BALBRIGGAN |
BALBRIGGAN |
67 |
|
GARRISTOWN |
3 |
|
|
LUSK |
7 |
|
|
RUSH |
6 |
|
|
SKERRIES |
11 |
|
|
TOTAL |
94 |
|
|
BALLYMUN |
BALLYMUN |
129 |
|
DUBLIN AIRPORT |
22 |
|
|
SANTRY |
83 |
|
|
WHITEHALL |
49 |
|
|
TOTAL |
283 |
|
|
COOLOCK |
COOLOCK |
120 |
|
MALAHIDE |
38 |
|
|
SWORDS |
84 |
|
|
Total |
242 |
|
|
RAHENY |
CLONTARF |
80 |
|
HOWTH |
41 |
|
|
RAHENY |
74 |
|
|
TOTAL |
195 |
|
|
DMR NORTH |
15 Stations |
814 |
|
DMR NORTH CENTRAL 31 OCT 2010 |
||
|
BRIDEWELL |
BRIDEWELL |
179 |
|
FIXED PENALTY OFFICE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
180 |
|
|
FITZGIBBON STREET |
FITZGIBBON STREET |
117 |
|
MOUNTJOY |
102 |
|
|
Total |
219 |
|
|
STORE STREET |
IMMIGRATION D/DOCKS |
8 |
|
STORE STREET |
295 |
|
|
TOTAL |
303 |
|
|
DMR NORTH CENTRAL |
6 Stations |
702 |
|
DMR NORTH 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BALBRIGGAN |
BALBRIGGAN |
68 |
|
GARRISTOWN |
2 |
|
|
LUSK |
10 |
|
|
SKERRIES |
9 |
|
|
TOTAL |
89 |
|
|
BALLYMUN |
BALLYMUN |
118 |
|
DUBLIN AIRPORT |
20 |
|
|
SANTRY |
83 |
|
|
TOTAL |
221 |
|
|
COOLOCK |
COOLOCK |
102 |
|
MALAHIDE |
31 |
|
|
SWORDS |
67 |
|
|
TOTAL |
200 |
|
|
RAHENY |
CLONTARF |
70 |
|
HOWTH |
27 |
|
|
RAHENY |
68 |
|
|
RAHENY |
TOTAL |
165 |
|
DMR NORTH |
13 Stations |
675 |
|
DMR NORTH CENTRAL 30 SEPT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BRIDEWELL |
BRIDEWELL |
155 |
|
TOTAL |
155 |
|
|
FITZGIBBON STREET |
MOUNTJOY |
191 |
|
TOTAL |
191 |
|
|
STORE STREET |
IMMIGRATION D/DOCKS |
3 |
|
STORE STREET |
255 |
|
|
TOTAL |
258 |
|
|
DMR NORTH CENTRAL |
4 Stations |
604 |
90. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if the budget allocation for her Department will be sufficient to allow for the recent deal with the GRA and the AGSI; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34739/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, following intensive negotiations between the Government, the Garda Representative Association (GRA) and Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) facilitated by the Workplace Relations Commission, the Labour Court issued a recommendation on 3 November last in relation to the dispute. In the case of individual members, the recommendation for the GRA and AGSI would provide extra remuneration of around €4,000 on average to a member of the Service over the next 12 months through:
- an increase in the value of the rent allowance by €500 bringing it to €4,655 per annum with effect from 1 January 2017;
- the integration of the rent allowance in the new amount of €4,655 into salary with consequential increases in unsocial hours and overtime payments also with effect from 1 January 2017;
- the introduction of a €15 premium payment per annual leave day to compensate for the uncertainty attaching to the taking of leave by Gardaí. This payment will be worth €510 per annum to a Garda with 34 days annual leave;
- the implementation of a long-standing recommendation of the Garda Inspectorate through the introduction of paid 15 minute pre-tour briefing or tasking sessions with effect from 1 January 2017.
Under the Labour Court recommendation, new recruits who do not currently receive rent allowance, will have it restored, in addition to the other improvements I just listed. In addition, the increment freeze in place for GRA members since 1 July will be lifted and any arrears arising from increments foregone will be paid.
The Government has also made it clear that it is committed to introducing legislative change to give the Garda Associations the right of access to the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court.
On foot of the Labour Court recommendation, the GRA and AGSI agreed to defer the intended industrial action over the course of the four Fridays in November to facilitate a ballot of their membership. This was a very welcome decision by the Garda associations and has ensured that a full policing service remains in place.
The Government fully respects the decision of the Labour Court as the independent industrial relations body of last resort in the State and agreed last week to accept its recommendation. The outcome of the process is now being examined in detail by all sides and it is hoped that it will form the basis for a final resolution of this dispute following the balloting of members of AGSI and the GRA in due course.
The independent recommendation of the Labour Court seeks to address the concerns that have been articulated by the representative bodies in relation to their pay and conditions including of new recruits, and their access to the statutory dispute resolution bodies. The nature of the Labour Court's recommendation is such that some of the cost of the implementation of the proposals, if they are accepted by the members of AGSI and the GRA, depend on the amount of overtime worked in any year. That said, I am advised that, depending on a number of variables, the estimated gross annual cost of implementing the Labour Court Recommendation could exceed €50m; however, this gross cost will be offset by statutory deductions for tax, PRSI, etc., which will reduce the net Exchequer cost.
Once the outcome of the ballots is known and if the proposals are accepted, the additional budgetary cost will be the subject of discussions between my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
What is most important at this juncture is that members of AGSI and the GRA are afforded the time and space to give the Labour Court's recommendation the detailed consideration that it deserves.
91. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her efforts in relation to resolving pending industrial relations disputes at An Garda Siochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31004/16]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, following intensive negotiations between the Government, the Garda Representative Association (GRA) and Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) facilitated by the Workplace Relations Commission, the Labour Court issued a recommendation on 3 November last in relation to the dispute. In the case of individual members, the recommendation for the GRA and AGSI would provide extra remuneration of around €4,000 on average to a member of the Service over the next 12 months through:
- an increase in the value of the rent allowance by €500 bringing it to €4,655 per annum with effect from 1 January 2017;
- the integration of the rent allowance in the new amount of €4,655 into salary with consequential increases in unsocial hours and overtime payments also with effect from 1 January 2017;
- the introduction of a €15 premium payment per annual leave day to compensate for the uncertainty attaching to the taking of leave by Gardaí. This payment will be worth €510 per annum to a Garda with 34 days annual leave;
- the implementation of a long-standing recommendation of the Garda Inspectorate through the introduction of paid 15 minute pre-tour briefing or tasking sessions with effect from 1 January 2017.
Under the Labour Court recommendation, new recruits who do not currently receive rent allowance, will have it restored, in addition to the other improvements I just listed. In addition, the increment freeze in place for GRA members since 1 July will be lifted and any arrears arising from increments foregone will be paid.
The Government has also made it clear that it is committed to introducing legislative change to give the Garda Associations the right of access to the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court.
On foot of the Labour Court recommendation, the GRA and AGSI agreed to defer the intended industrial action over the course of the four Fridays in November to facilitate a ballot of their membership. This was a very welcome decision by the Garda associations and has ensured that a full policing service remains in place.
The Government fully respects the decision of the Labour Court as the independent industrial relations body of last resort in the State and agreed last week to accept its recommendation. The outcome of the process is now being examined in detail by all sides and it is hoped that it will form the basis for a final resolution of this dispute following the balloting of members of AGSI and the GRA in due course.
The independent recommendation of the Labour Court seeks to address the concerns that have been articulated by the representative bodies in relation to their pay and conditions including of new recruits, and their access to the statutory dispute resolution bodies.
What is most important at this juncture is that members of AGSI and the GRA are afforded the time and space to give the Labour Court's recommendation the detailed consideration that it deserves.
92. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the representations the State has made regarding UK surveillance of Internet traffic to and from Ireland; and the EU rules that govern the regulation of such monitoring of information passing between and through member states. [32082/16]
View answerI am sure the House shares my view that the protection of data and the privacy of communications are not matters which should be taken lightly and it is right that communications are safeguarded and protected against unlawful intrusion and interception.
That said, the lawful interception of communications is sometimes a necessary tool for law enforcement authorities in order to protect citizens against terrorism and other serious criminal threats. The majority of citizens would accept that there should be a balance between personal privacy and public safety once the mechanisms by which such data is accessed is both legal and proportionate.
I want to emphasise that the interception of an individual’s communications in this State can only occur in the very specific circumstances laid down in the Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunications Messages (Regulation) Act of 1993. This Act permits me to authorise an interception but only for the purposes of criminal investigation into serious offences or in the interests of the security of the State. The operation of the Act is overseen independently by a Designated Judge of the High Court who reports to the Taoiseach on his examination of its operation. In addition, a Complaints Referee (a serving judge of the Circuit Court) receives and investigates complaints from persons who believe that their communications have been unlawfully intercepted. If the Complaints Referee finds that there has been a violation of the Act he can order that the interceptions cease and recommend the award of compensation.
The interception of communications is not a matter that is regulated at EU level. However, arrangements are in place under the EU Mutual Assistance Convention which provide for the implementation of reciprocal interception arrangements in the context of criminal investigations. The Convention is given effect in Irish law in the Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Act 2008.
The Deputy will be aware of reports early last year which alleged that authorities in the UK had accessed communications cables between this State and the UK. The reports suggest that this access may have been connected to surveillance activities being carried out within the jurisdiction of the UK. At that time, my colleague the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade was in contact with the British Embassy on this issue. It has been conveyed that it is generally understood that friendly relationships between States include the acceptance of the principle that the privacy of communications must be respected.
93. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for counties Cavan and Monaghan are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in counties Cavan and Monaghan 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. [34667/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for counties Cavan and Monaghan 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 Gardai 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 |
|
Cavan/Monaghan |
Dowra |
|
Rockcorry |
|
|
Ballinagh |
|
|
Swanlinbar |
|
|
Killeshandra |
94. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans for changing the system of direct provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34853/16]
View answerThe Report of the Working Group on Improvements to the protection process including Direct Provision and Supports to Asylum Seekers provides a template for the development and improvement of a wide range of services being delivered to those seeking international protection.
One of the key recommendations of the Report was the introduction of a single application procedure in the protection process. The International Protection Act 2015 provides for such a procedure. My Department is currently preparing all of the steps necessary to commence the Act which responds to some 26 of the Working Group’s recommendations and can be expected to positively address the crucial issue of the length of time that applicants spend in the protection process and by extension in State provided accommodation.
On this particular point, significant efforts have been made to deal with those who are longest in the system and at this stage the vast majority of those who are over 5 years in the system and who do not have any impediments to progress, such as pending judicial challenges, have now had their cases processed to completion. This has been a key achievement that has had a real impact on many people and families in the protection process.
A transition Task Force was established in 2015 and put in place important supports to facilitate people with status moving into and integrating with the community. The Task Force reported that 87% of people granted status had moved into the wider community within six months.
Tangible progress in improving the daily lives of asylum seekers living in State provided accommodation while their application is being processed is also being made. In January last, the former Tánaiste announced an increase to the Direct Provision Allowance for children, the first such increase since the introduction of the payment some sixteen years ago. Prescription fees for all those in receipt of the Direct Provision allowance, including children, have also been waived. The Minister for Education and Skills has also announced a second year of their pilot support scheme for students in the protection system for the academic year 2016/2017.
The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of my Department, which is responsible for the management and administration of accommodation and ancillary services to protection applicants in state provided accommodation, is actively progressing the implementation of other recommendations in the Report around access to cooking facilities and the increase in living space for those who avail of State provided accommodation. Pilot projects are being undertaken in a number of centres to ensure the best approach to realising these objectives and ensuring that those residing in the direct provision system continue to be treated with respect and dignity.
RIA are also working on the development of standards for the provision and maintenance of services in accommodation centres, enhancing the complaints mechanisms for residents of those centres and the provision of ongoing diversity and equality training and awareness programmes across all centres.
95. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for County Clare are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in County Clare 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. [34682/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for County Clare 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 Gardai 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. Clare |
Crusheen |
|
Lissycasey |
|
|
Kildysart |
|
|
Tulla |
|
|
Ballyvaughan |
96. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will review, amend and strengthen the trespass laws to protect the rights of land and property owners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34402/16]
View answerTrespass is a civil wrong and, for the most part, falls to be addressed by means of a civil remedy.
Trespass may be dealt with under criminal law in certain circumstances and a range of offences are provided for in legislation.
The Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, as amended, contains provisions specifically relating to the unauthorised entry onto and occupation of land. Part IIA of that Act, comprising sections 19A to 19H, as inserted by the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002, provides for offences in relation to illegal trespass and occupation of land. Such land includes privately owned land and public land provided or maintained by a statutory body or held in trust primarily for the enjoyment of the public. The legislation empowers the Garda Síochána to direct trespassers to leave the land concerned and remove any object belonging to them from the occupied land. A person who is guilty of an offence under this Part of the Act is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €4,000 or a term of imprisonment of up to one month, or both.
Trespass in relation to buildings, as well as land, is also dealt with in the 1994 Act. Section 11 of the Act provides that it is an offence for a person to enter a building or the vicinity of a building as a trespasser with the intention of committing an offence or interfering with property. A person who is guilty of an offence under this section is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €2,500 or imprisonment for a term of up to 6 months, or both.
In addition, section 13(1) of the same Act provides that it is an offence for a person, without reasonable excuse, to trespass on a building or in the vicinity of a building in such a manner as causes or is likely to cause fear in another person. Section 13(2) empowers the Garda Síochána to request the person concerned to desist from acting in such a manner and to immediately leave the place concerned in a peaceable and orderly manner. It is an offence not to comply with a direction given by a member of the Garda Síochána under section 13(2). A person who is guilty of an offence under section 13(1) is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €2,500 or imprisonment for a term of up to 12 months, or both. A person who is guilty of an offence under section 13(2) is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €1,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to 6 months, or both.
The Prohibition of Forcible Entry and Occupation Act 1971 also contains provisions relating to trespass. Under this Act it is an offence to forcibly enter land, including buildings, or remain in forceful occupation, or to encourage or advocate the commission of such an offence. A person guilty of a first offence under the Act is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €500 or imprisonment for a term of up to 6 months, or both. A second or subsequent offence under the Act is punishable, on summary conviction, by a fine of up to €1,000 or imprisonment for term of up to 12 months, or both. Conviction on indictment for an offence under the Act can result in a fine of up to €5,000 or a prison term of up to 3 years, or both.
As I have outlined, there is already robust legislation in place in relation to trespass and I have, therefore, no plans to change the law in this regard, but the situation will be kept under review.
97. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations and the number of gardaí in each in County Laois 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 Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34722/16]
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. Co. Laois is part of the Laois/Offaly Garda Division. I am informed that of the 534 newly attested Gardaí, 24 have been assigned to that 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 attest 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 classroom 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 Laois/Offaly 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 Laois/Offaly Division on 31 October 2010 and 30 September 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, for the record.
|
LAOIS/OFFALY DIVISION 31 OCT 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
ABBEYLEIX |
ABBEYLEIX |
28 |
|
ARLES |
2 |
|
|
BALLACOLLA |
1 |
|
|
BALLINAKILL |
1 |
|
|
BALLYLINAN |
4 |
|
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
|
|
DURROW |
2 |
|
|
RATHDOWNEY |
4 |
|
|
TOTAL |
43 |
|
|
BIRR |
BANAGHER |
5 |
|
BIRR |
29 |
|
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
|
|
FERBANE |
5 |
|
|
KILCORMAC |
2 |
|
|
KINNITTY |
1 |
|
|
SHANNONBRIDGE |
1 |
|
|
SHINRONE |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
46 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
CLONASLEE |
2 |
|
MOUNTMELLICK |
7 |
|
|
MOUNTRATH |
4 |
|
|
PORTARLINGTON |
14 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
114 |
|
|
STRADBALLY |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
143 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
CLARA |
5 |
|
CLONBOLOGUE |
0 |
|
|
DAINGEAN |
2 |
|
|
EDENDERRY |
13 |
|
|
GEASHILL |
0 |
|
|
RHODE |
2 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
80 |
|
|
TOTAL |
102 |
|
|
LAOIS/OFFALY |
29 Stations |
334 |
|
LAOIS / OFFALY DIVISION 30 SEP 2016 |
||
|
Division |
Stations |
Garda Numbers |
|
BIRR |
BANAGHER |
5 |
|
BIRR |
28 |
|
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
|
|
FERBANE |
4 |
|
|
KILCORMAC |
2 |
|
|
KINNITTY |
1 |
|
|
SHINRONE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
42 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
ABBEYLEIX |
20 |
|
ARLES |
1 |
|
|
BALLYLINAN |
2 |
|
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
|
|
CLONASLEE |
1 |
|
|
DURROW |
1 |
|
|
MOUNTMELLICK |
6 |
|
|
MOUNTRATH |
3 |
|
|
PORTARLINGTON |
13 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
107 |
|
|
RATHDOWNEY |
2 |
|
|
STRADBALLY |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
159 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
CLARA |
4 |
|
DAINGEAN |
2 |
|
|
EDENDERRY |
13 |
|
|
RHODE |
1 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
73 |
|
|
TOTAL |
93 |
|
|
LAOIS / OFFALY |
24 Stations |
294 |
98. Deputy John Lahart asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for the Dublin southern metropolitan region are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in Dublin southern metropolitan region 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. [34733/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for the Dublin southern metropolitan region reflect all crime incidents recorded by An Garda Síochána for that area.
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 Gardai 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 |
|
Dublin South Metropolitan |
None |
99. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for counties Carlow and Kilkenny are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in counties Carlow and Kilkenny 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. [34660/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for Carlow and Kilkenny 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 the majority of 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.
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 the extent of how successful the ongoing work has been to achieve improvements to the quality of crime data.
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 |
|
Carlow/Kilkenny |
Ballon |
|
Myshall |
|
|
Hacketstown |
|
|
Glenmore |
|
|
Kilmacow |
|
|
Freshford |
|
|
Goresbridge |
|
|
Stoneyford |
|
|
Ballyhale |
|
|
Kilmoganny |
|
|
Piltown |
100. Deputy Pat Casey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if recorded crime statistics for County Wicklow are an accurate reflection of the reality of crime in the area; if all Garda stations in County Wicklow 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. [34708/16]
View answerCrime statistics are compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) based on PULSE data and the statistics for County Wicklow 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 Gardai 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 Wicklow |
Shillelagh |
