Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 October 2019
259. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there is specific training carried out by the Private Security Authority for door supervisors that work for underage discos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39463/19]
View answerAs Deputies are aware, the Private Security Authority (PSA) was established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, as amended. It is an independent statutory body under the aegis of my Department. It is responsible for the licensing and regulation of the private security industry in the State.
I am informed by the PSA that a Door Supervisor (Licensed Premises) licence is required where a security service is provided at one of the following licensed premises:
- a premises licensed for the sale of intoxicating liquor under the Licensing Acts,
- a premises licensed under the Public Dance Halls Acts,
- a premises licensed under the Gaming and Lotteries Acts,
- a club registered under the Registration of Clubs Acts,
- a food premises, or a food stall or food vehicle, within the meaning of the Food Hygiene Regulations.
The Deputy raised the question of underage discos. A number of factors need to be considered in relation to such events. For example, many of these underage discos are held in locations other than licensed premises and may be manned by local volunteers rather than security personnel. Depending on the circumstances, there may not be a requirement for licensed door supervisors under the provisions of the Private Security Services Act.
However I can confirm that the PSA has indicated that in cases where an underage disco is held in a venue deemed to be a licensed premises, then all persons providing security must hold a valid Door Supervisor (Licensed Premises) licence from the PSA.
I can further confirm that the PSA requires all individuals who apply for such a licence to hold a national training qualification. The minimum training requirement for this particular sector is the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 4 Minor Award, or equivalent, in Door Security Procedures.
