Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 January 2018
96. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if he has spoken to the Minister for Justice and Equality regarding the external group to be appointed to oversee reform of the Department of Justice and Equality. [1465/18]
View answer97. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the estimated timeframe to receive the report on the emails that were not sent to the Charleton tribunal from a person (details supplied). [1466/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 97 together.
Following consultation with the Attorney General, I appointed Mr. Michael Collins, Senior Counsel, to conduct an independent review of the practices and procedures employed by the Department of Justice and Equality in response to requests for documents from the Disclosures Tribunal. The Terms of Reference for the review were published on my Department's website on 13 December 2017. The review will involve a thorough examination of the actions taken by the Department in responding to such requests, relevant documents and records, the processes used within the Department, and communication to and from senior management and the Minister. The review will set out the facts as found, together with such observations or comments as are considered necessary. It may also advise on what further measures, if any, might be taken to address any concerns arising from the review.
Mr. Collins has been asked to use his best endeavours to report to me on or before 19 January 2018, or at the earliest possible date thereafter.
Work is currently underway to finalise arrangements for an independent and change implementation group to be established to:
a) assess progress in implementing the recommendations of the Toland Report;
b) review the culture of the Department, make recommendations for change, particularly in the light of evidence of a continued siloed and secretive culture and a failure to provide accurate information to me and the Oireachtas;
c) examine in particular, the relationship between the Department and the Gardaí, to ensure that the relationship is appropriately structured, is understood in both organisations and operates in such a way as to ensure accountability and better performance across the broader justice landscape;
d) draw on the expertise of the Policing Authority in conducting its work where appropriate;
e) provide continued external oversight of the implementation of the Toland Report and report to the Oireachtas on the implementation of these recommendations.
I expect that details regarding this matter will be announced by the Government shortly.
