Wednesday, 13 May 2020

Written Answers Nos. 329-353

Garda Vetting Applications

Questions (329)

Niamh Smyth

Question:

329. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a person (details supplied) has been waiting a long time for a Garda vetting application. [3931/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will appreciate that the primary purpose of the employment vetting carried out by the National Vetting Bureau is to seek to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. It is carried out by An Garda Síochána primarily in accordance with the provisions of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012-2016. It is, as I am sure the Deputy will agree, a very important task which must be done thoroughly and correctly.

My Department has no role in the processing of individual vetting applications.

I have been informed by the Garda Authorities that the Vetting Bureau works to ensure that the processing time for vetting applications is kept to the minimum necessary in order to ensure that the statutory obligation to receive a vetting disclosure prior to permitting any person to undertake relevant work or activities on behalf of an organisation can be facilitated without undue delay.

All Garda vetting applications are processed on a first come, first served basis in chronological order from date of receipt. This is with a view to observing equity and fairness in respect of all vetting subjects.

In respect of certain applications, it is necessary for the Vetting Bureau to conduct further enquiries; for example to confirm information provided by the applicant with external bodies. The time required to receive such information may be outside of the control of the Vetting Bureau. In such instances, processing times may be significantly longer than the average.

However I am informed by the Garda authorities that, in general, the vetting process is working well and that there are no backlogs or delays in Garda vetting at present.

This efficiency has been achieved by the deployment of the e-vetting system which facilitates the on-line processing of applications for vetting from registered organisations. The general turnaround time for vetting applications submitted by organisations utilising the e-vetting system is 4 working days for over 85% of applications received.

Individual applicants can also track the process of their application online using the e-vetting tracking system, details of which are contained in the email received by applicants when completing their application online.

Departmental Communications

Questions (330)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Question:

330. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a reply will issue to a request submitted to his Department (details supplied) by the Galway West county coroner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3932/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I wish to assure the Deputy that I have issued the necessary direction under the Coroners Act 1962. The scheduling of an inquest will be a matter for the coroner for Galway West.

Naturalisation Applications

Questions (331)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

331. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when an application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) will be progressed in view of the fact the information requested has been supplied previously or in the case of that national passport is not available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3935/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I can inform the Deputy that an application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person referred to on 30 September 2019.

This application is currently being processed with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible.

Documentation requested by officials in my Department must be submitted. This would include an original in date passport. The onus rests with the person and their home country’s authorities to sort out the procurement of their own national passport. The conditions under which a national passport is issued or renewed is essentially a matter for the person to address with their own national authorities.

In rare circumstances where an applicant cannot produce their current passport, the applicant will be required to provide a full explanation. Such explanation should, where possible, be supported by satisfactory evidence that they have attempted to obtain such documentation and correspondence from the relevant authorities or embassy responsible for the issuing of passports in their country, clearly stating the reasons the documentation cannot be provided. The Immigration Service Delivery will consider the explanation given and, if satisfied it is for reasons genuinely beyond the applicant's control, may suggest alternative means to the person to assist in establishing their identity and nationality.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Garda Transport Data

Questions (332)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

332. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and percentage of the north Dublin Garda fleet aged over ten years as of 24 February 2020. [3955/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

In accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005, as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for management and control of An Garda Síochána and for the allocation and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for the allocation of Garda vehicles, in accordance with operational demand. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

I am informed by Garda authorities that as of 29 February 2020 there were 92 vehicles assigned to the DMR North Division, of which only 8 vehicles are more than 10 years old. This represents less than 9% of the total Divisional fleet.

The Deputy may also be interested to know that a total of €9 million has been allocated specifically for purchase and fit-out of Garda vehicles in 2020. The number and type of vehicles which will be purchased with this allocation as well as the Divisions to which those new vehicles will be assigned are entirely a matter for the Garda Commissioner.

This investment is part of a total capital investment of €46 million in the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.

Garda Station Refurbishment

Questions (333)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

333. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Garda stations within the north Dublin Garda division that are due for refurbishment in the first half of 2020; and the status of each project. [3956/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The resources allocated to An Garda Síochána have reached record levels, with an allocation of €1.88 billion for 2020. The capital allocation to An Garda Síochána has also been further increased to a total of €116.5million. This ongoing financial support is intended to enable a strong and visible police presence throughout the country, to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to the public and deter crime.

The Deputy will appreciate that the Office of Public Works has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. Works in relation to Garda accommodation are progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW).

I am informed by the Garda authorities and the OPW that a number of Garda stations within the DMR North Division are currently undergoing or are due some works in the period referred to by the Deputy.

I am advised by the Garda authorities and OPW that the refurbishment of Rush Garda Station, which has been undertaken as part of the Garda station pilot reopening project, has been completed, with the exception of the final connection to the ESB grid. The OPW expects to be in a position to hand over the Garda Station in the coming weeks. Following handover to An Garda Síochána, the internal fit out of the Garda Station, including furniture and ICT, will be required before the station is reopened.

I am further informed that additional office accommodation is being provided for Coolock Garda station. Two Portakabins previously used to accommodate Garda Legal Services in Garda Headquarters are undergoing a refurbishment, and will be used to provide that extra office accommodation. I am informed that these works are due for completion in the coming weeks.

Provision of temporary accommodation replace an existing modular building at Swords Garda station is also currently being progressed by the OPW in cooperation with the Garda authorities. I understand that this accommodation will provide office space and facilities for Gardaí assigned to that station.

I am further informed that works are ongoing for installation of two electric vehicle charging points at the rear of the Garda station at Dublin Airport. I am informed that this work is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.

Garda Data

Questions (334)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

334. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank attached to the north Dublin Garda drugs unit as of 24 February 2020. [3957/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no responsibility for these matters. I am assured however that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

The resources provided to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2020 of €1.88 billion. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff and as a result, An Garda Síochána is a growing organisation. There are now over 14,700 Gardaí nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow. Taken together, this increase in the number of Garda members and staff is delivering a significant increase in operational policing hours nationwide.

In relation to the specific location referred to by the Deputy, I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 March 2020, the latest for which figures are available, there were 16 Gardaí and 3 Sergeants assigned to the Drugs Unit based in the DMR North Division.

This is in addition to Divisional Drugs Units which include approximately 236 Garda personnel, as of 31 March, assigned to tackle drug related crime on a local basis throughout the country supported, as needed, by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau which has 98 Gardaí attached to it as of 31 March.

I understand that Gardaí through these structures are having significant success in disrupting drug trafficking and the supply of illicit drugs to Ireland, as well as organised crime groups.

Departmental Expenditure

Questions (335)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

335. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the amount expended on access to online and hard copy media publications in each of the years 2017 to 2019 and to date in 2020; the breakdown of online and hard copy subscriptions including the publications that his Department subscribes to; if consideration has been given to using a banded set of IP addresses for online subscriptions rather than individual accounts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4011/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

Regular media engagement and monitoring of current media issues is essential for my Department to fulfil its public role and democratic mandate. My Department has hard copy and digital subscriptions to daily and weekend national publications as set out below.

In respect of using a banded set of IP addresses for online subscriptions rather than individual accounts, the Department seeks the best value for money and all possible avenues are considered when subscriptions fall to be renewed. The subscription mechanism and pricing models used by media outlets varies, and the mixed approach used by the Department including the purchase of physical copies and online subscriptions to specific newspapers is considered to be an appropriate and proportionate use of resources.

Hard Copy Subscriptions	Online Subscriptions
The Irish Independent	The Times
The Irish Times	The Sunday Times
Evening Herald	The Financial Times
Irish Daily Mail
Irish Examiner
The Times
Metro Eireann
The Daily Star
The Mirror
The Phoenix
The Sun
The Sunday Independent
The Sunday Times
The Economist
The Financial Times
Business and Finance Magazine

-	Year	Amount
Digital Subscription	2017	€1,326
	2018	€3,425
	2019	€2,819
	2020	€434
Digital Subscription Total		€8,004

-	Year	Amount
Hard Copy Subscription	2017	€13,492
	2018	€12,572
	2019	€10,662
	2020	€939
Hard Copy Subscription Total		€37,665

Overall Total

€45,669

Departmental Data

Questions (336)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

336. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the top ten websites visited by officials and political staff annually in each of the years 2017 to 2019 and to date in 2020 via hardware provided to them by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4027/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

Staff access to websites is subject to the Department's ICT Acceptable Use Policy and unsafe and inappropriate sites are blocked from access on the Department network. Restrictions are also in place with regard to access to certain categories of sites (e.g. sports, shopping) during working hours.

The data requested by the Deputy is shown in the table below and constitutes links accessed through the Department’s ICT Shared Service for the relevant period.

It should be noted that the vast majority of links accessed do not arise from direct or intentional visits by web users, but are rather indirectly accessed through the display of advertising on other websites, as can be seen in the list below. The monitoring system in place is primarily designed to protect against cases of unsafe or inappropriate access and does not provide a breakdown of direct vs. indirect access.

2017	Transactions (M)
adsafeprotected.com	32.3
2mdn.net	29.0
adnxs.com	24.8
bbci.co.uk	10.9
adroll.com	5.8
aib.ie	5.4
advertising.com	5.1
bbc.co.uk	4.9
akamaized.net	3.0
adform.net	2.8

2018	Transactions (M)
2mdn.net	30.5
adsafeprotected.com	25.3
adnxs.com	22.8
bbci.co.uk	7.1
adform.net	5.3
adroll.com	4.8
aib.ie	4.8
advertising.com	4.6
akamaized.net	4.0
bbc.co.uk	3.9

2019	Transactions (M)
adsafeprotected.com	34.8
2mdn.net	26.0
adnxs.com	21.7
adform.net	7.3
amazon-adsystem.com	5.4
advertising.com	4.8
bbci.co.uk	4.5
akamaized.net	4.3
aib.ie	4.0
amazon.co.uk	3.9

2020 (as at 10 March)	Transactions (M)
doubleclick.net	13.7
cloud.gov.ie	5.8
adsafeprotected.com	4.1
google.com	3.3
2mdn.net	3.0
adnxs.com	3.0
dailymail.co.uk	2.9
chartbeat.net	2.2
casalemedia.com	1.4

Legislative Measures

Questions (337)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

337. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if legislation will be introduced to protect vulnerable persons here (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4083/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will be aware that the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 was signed into law on 30 December 2015 but has not yet been fully commenced. The Act provides a modern statutory framework to support decision-making by adults with capacity difficulties. It provides for the establishment of new administrative processes and support measures, including the setting up of the Decision Support Service (DSS) within the Mental Health Commission (a body under the Department of Health).

The ambition of the Act, which is wholly appropriate, does mean that it is challenging and complex to implement. A high-level Steering Group comprising senior officials from the Department of Justice and Equality, the Department of Health, the Mental Health Commission and the Courts Service, together with the Director of the DSS, is overseeing the establishment and commissioning of the Decision Support Service and this work is ongoing.

The key preparations are being put in place under the oversight of the Steering Group to allow for commencement orders for the main operative provisions of the 2015 Act to be made when the necessary preparations have been completed to enable the DSS to roll out the new decision-making support options.

To provide safeguards against exploitation of persons with decision-making difficulties, the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 creates a number of offences in relation to persons with decision-making capacity difficulties. In particular, section 145 of the Act provides that a decision-making assistant, co-decision-maker, decision-making representative, attorney, or designated healthcare representative for a person who wilfully ill-treats or neglects that person will be guilty of an offence.

The Act also creates a number of offences in relation to coercion or undue influence of a person with capacity difficulties that forces the person to enter into, alter or revoke one of the decision-making support arrangements under the Act. Coercion or undue influence includes any case where a person’s access to, or continued stay in, a designated centre or mental health facility, is contingent (whether in whole or in part) on the person having to, or being led to believe that he or she has to, enter into (or alter or revoke) a decision-making support arrangement.

Further to this, the Policing and Community Safety Bill is being drafted by my Department to give legislative effect to the recommendations of the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI). It will redefine policing to include prevention of harm to those who are vulnerable and place an obligation on relevant state agencies to cooperate with An Garda Síochána in relation to the broader issue of community safety. It will also provide for a new coherent governance and oversight framework to empower the Garda Commissioner to act as CEO supported and held to account by a non-executive Board, ensure strong internal governance and robust, transparent external oversight and effective accountability which will ultimately lead to a better run organisation and more effective policing.

Although significant operational and other policy across health sector organisations has been in place for some time, the Minister for Health has identified a need to establish a national sectorial policy for safeguarding adults in the health and social care sector. The Government subsequently approved the development of an overarching policy on adult safeguarding across the public, voluntary and private health sector.

As I understand it, the Department of Health is advancing the necessary work, including client, expert and stakeholder engagement, and that preparation of this policy is advancing well. At present, the aim is to substantially complete work this year on a draft health sector policy subject to Government approval, with a focus in 2021 of preparing and planning for implementation, including consideration of necessary actions and tools to support roll out across health and social care services. In the meantime, adult safeguarding in the health and social care sector is addressed on the basis of:

Cross-sectorial legislation such as vetting legislation, legislation on withholding information on certain offences against children and vulnerable persons, criminal law, equal status legislation, legislation underpinning the National Disability Inclusion Strategy and assisted decision-making (capacity) legislation;

An operational policy, currently under revision, which applies to all HSE and HSE-funded social care services (the "“Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse - National Policy and Procedures (2014)” and joint national adult safeguarding standards prepared by the Health Information and Quality Authority and the Mental Health Commission and approved in 2019 by the Minister for Health, applicable to regulated social care and healthcare (including mental health) services.

Cyberbullying Issues

Questions (338)

James Browne

Question:

338. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to revise harassment legislation here taking into consideration the impact of cyberbullying on the mental health of a person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4100/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I remain concerned at the deeply harmful effects which cyber-bullying can have on persons who experience that or other harmful online behaviours. These experiences can be devastating for those affected.

In recent years, a whole-of-government response was taken to addressing these complex issues, in particular through the Action Plan for Online Safety 2018 - 2019 which identified a range of positive actions to address online safety issues, including cyber-bullying. There has been a general consensus in recent years that the appropriate response to addressing such online issues is one that encompasses educational and awareness raising campaigns, as well as effective actions and policies on the part of internet companies.

In relation to harassment laws specifically, the Law Reform Commission published a report on Harmful Communications and Digital Safety in 2016 which recommended a number of legislative changes in order to deal more effectively with the negative aspects of increased use of online communications.

Many of the recommendations outlined in this report were provided for in a Private Members Bill sponsored by Deputy Brendan Howlin - the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Bill 2017.

In May of last year, the Government approved the approach to be taken and, in order to ensure that legislation in this area would be enacted as swiftly as possible, agreed to adopt and amend that Bill. My Department then began a close engagement with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to draft amendments to the Bill, to ensure consistency in its provisions and significantly strengthen the law in this area including through the proposed creation of a number of new offences. The amendments would also have removed some of the civil provisions in the Bill that might be more appropriately dealt with through proposals to establish the Office of the Digital Safety Commissioner, which was being progressed by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

I expect these matters will be reintroduced but that is a matter for the incoming Government to decide.

Female Genital Mutilation

Questions (339)

James Browne

Question:

339. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps he will take to address female genital mutilation here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4112/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will be glad to know that female genital mutilation has been an offence in Ireland since 2012, when the Criminal Justice (Female Genital Mutilation) Act 2012 created it and related offences.

Addressing female genital mutilation in Ireland falls primarily under the remit of my colleague, Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, and the Health Service Executive is responsible for addressing the health implications arising from female genital mutilation.

In so far as concerns my remit, the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence 2016-2021 contains a commitment to raise awareness of female genital mutilation within An Garda Síochána. This is being actioned through:

- Delivery of a training module on female genital mutilation twice a year to frontline Gardaí; and

- Development and dissemination of an Information Guide on Female Genital Mutilation for all members of An Garda Síochána.

The latest Report of the of Monitoring Committee for the Strategy notes that this action is meeting the targets as set out in the Strategy.

Action 61 of the Migrant Integration Strategy, sets out the State’s obligation across Departments to provide intercultural awareness training to staff where it is appropriate to their role. For frontline staff such as medical and Gardaí, this is particularly important as they may be the first point of contact with at risk women and girls. An Garda Síochána is committed under Action 63 of the Migrant Integration Strategy to continue to implement a victim-centred policy and good investigative practices in racial or other similar crimes.

I note that the first conviction under that legislation was secured in the courts in November of last year and An Garda Síochána took the opportunity to highlight the dangers and the illegal nature of the practice.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal Applications

Questions (340)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

340. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of a claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4118/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal is made up of qualified barristers and solicitors who provide services on a part-time basis. As the Deputy will appreciate, the Tribunal is entirely independent in the matter of individual decisions on applications for compensation. As Minister, I have no role in that regard.

However I have had enquiries made and I am advised that a decision on the claim referred to by the Deputy has been recently made by a Tribunal Member. I am advised that a letter has been issued to the applicant in that regard.

Prisoner Gratuity Payments

Questions (341)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

341. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if gratuity payments made to persons remanded in prisons here are reviewed in the context of the cost of living in the prison system; if price increases on goods available in prison shops and other prison facilities is monitored; the way in which pricing is set in shops and canteens in the prison system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4155/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that the incentivised regimes policy provides for a differentiation of privileges between prisoners according to their level of engagement with services and quality of behaviour. The objective is to provide tangible incentives to prisoners to participate in constructive activities and to encourage good behaviour, leading to a safer and more secure environment. I am informed that the list of additional privileges varies between prisons and within different areas of a prison, depending on operational and infrastructure requirements.

I am advised that three different regime levels are provided for and that the daily gratuity payable varies according to the regime level, as follows: basic €0.95, standard €1.70, and enhanced €2.20. I understand that remand prisoners are treated in the same way as sentenced prisoners for the purposes of the incentivised regimes policy.

I understand that the incentivised regimes policy was subject to a national review in 2019 and the review has almost concluded. One of the issues being considered as part of the review is the level of gratuity awarded under the incentivised regimes policy, with reference to the cost of living. The review is expected to conclude with a set of recommendations to the Director General of the Irish Prison Service in the next months.

The Deputy may also be interested to note that prisoners may avail of further gratuities under the approved working gratuity scheme. The daily amount of the approved work gratuity is fixed for all prisons/institutions at 50 cent per session with a maximum of €3.50 per week for work training activities, such as work in kitchens, laundry, industrial cleaning, grounds maintenance, industrial waste management, painting and stores.

Finally, I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that there is standard pricing in operation in prison shops and the decision is to charge the recommended retail price, as notified by the contracted supplier, in all prisons and I understand there is oversight in place on the prices charged.

Garda Transport Data

Questions (342)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

342. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars and vans attached to the Louth Garda division as of 31 December 2018 and 26 February 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4172/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

In accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. In addition, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes responsibility for the allocation of Garda vehicles among the various Garda divisions. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the fleet attached to Louth Garda Division as of 31 December 2018 and 26 February 2020 is set out in the following table.

Fleet as of	Division	Cars	Vans	Motorcycles	4 x 4	Others	Total
31-Dec-18	LOUTH	33	11	2	3	1	50
29-Feb-20	LOUTH	46	9	2	1	1	59

Significant capital investment is also being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million specifically for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.

Of this investment, a total of €9 million has been made available for purchase and fit-out of additional Garda vehicles in 2020. Decisions on the number and type of vehicles to be purchased as well as their allocation within An Garda Síochána are matters for the Garda Commissioner and not for me as Minister.

Finally, it should be noted that the details above relate to the size of Garda fleet in Louth on the dates requested by the Deputy only; and do not take account of the more than 200 additional community support vehicles recently hired by An Garda Síochána as part of its nationwide response to Covid-19.

Garda Data

Questions (343)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

343. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank attached to each crime task force within the Dublin metropolitan region, DMR, as of 26 February 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4173/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no responsibility for these matters. I am assured however that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

The resources provided by Government to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2020 of €1.88 billion. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff and as a result, An Garda Síochána is a growing organisation.

There are now over 14,700 Gardaí nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow. This increase in the number of both Garda members and staff is delivering a significant increase in operational policing hours nationwide.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that units referred to as 'Crime Taskforce Units' were previously in place within the DMR. However, I understand they have since been replaced by Burglary Response Units (BRU) in DMR East, DMR North and DMR South Central, while their responsibilities are now fulfilled by other Garda units within DMR North Central, DMR South and DMR West.

The following table, conveyed to me by the Garda authorities, sets out the number of Gardaí by rank attached to each BRU within the DMR as of 26 February 2020.

Division	Sergeant	Garda
DMR East	1	5
DMR North	2	17
DMR South Central	2	14
TOTAL	5	36

Garda Equipment

Questions (344)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

344. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if funding is available for the purchase of state-of-the art drones for use by An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4174/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy will be aware, record resources, including a substantial capital allocation of €116m, were made available to An Garda Síochána in 2020. Under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for carrying on and managing the administration and business of the organisation as well as for the allocation of Garda resources, in light of identified operational demands. As Minister, I have no role in those matters.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána does not currently use drones to aid policing but that a working group is responsible for assessing emerging technology and technological advances, including in relation to drones, with a view to their possible deployment in support of policing efforts.

I am informed that the organisation is giving consideration to the use of drones in areas such as by the Garda National Technical Bureau for the mapping of crime scenes and evidence collection; Roads Policing for traffic management, collision investigation, public order policing, crowd control and event management; and Operational Support Section for search and rescue and assisting operational frontline units.

I understand that it is envisaged that Gardaí will work to establish how the deployment of drones might operate and to identify any operational, legal or data protection issues that might arise, with a view to making recommendations for a policy on the matter. I understand that it is hoped that recommendations on the matter will be made in the second half of this year, although it is possible that the current Covid-19 pandemic may impact on this timeline.

I should also note that my Department is currently working on legislation relating to the recording and processing of digital images, as one of the actions arising under 'A Policing Service for the Future', the 4-year implementation plan for the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. It is expected that this Bill will allow for the use of drones by the Gardaí for operational policing into the future.

Ministerial Meetings

Questions (345)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

345. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he met the United States Secretary of Homeland Security during 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4175/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy will appreciate, Ireland and the United States of America have a strong record of cooperation in relation to justice and security matters. Meetings between relevant officeholders take place from time to time and officials liaise with their counterparts as needed as do the security services of the State.

In 2019, I met on one occasion with US Attorney General William Barr. I also met with the US Ambassador to Ireland, Edward Crawford, to discuss shared priorities and concerns and frequently met with the then Chargé d’Affairs, pending the formal appointment of an Ambassador.

I did not meet the United States Secretary of Homeland Security or the two officers who held that position in an acting capacity during 2019.

Garda National Immigration Bureau

Questions (346)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

346. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of unmarked cars and vans attached to the Garda National Immigration Bureau as of 31 December 2018 and 26 February 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4176/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

In accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. In addition, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes responsibility for the allocation of Garda vehicles among the various Garda divisions. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that 19 cars and 5 vans were attached to the Garda National Immigration Bureau as of 31 December 2018; and that 22 cars and 4 vans were attached to the Bureau as of 28 February 2020.

Significant capital investment is also being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million for investment in the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.

Of this investment, a total of €9 million has been made available for purchase and fit-out of additional Garda vehicles in 2020. Decisions on the number and type of vehicles to be purchased as well as their allocation within An Garda Síochána, are matters for the Garda Commissioner and not for me as Minister.

Visa Applications

Questions (347)

Bríd Smith

Question:

347. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the documents that are uniquely required for the category of short-stay spousal visa in circumstances in which an Irish citizen and his or her spouse are making a visa application online; the financial amount considered sufficient for the applicant and the person concerned or a sponsor (details supplied) to have at the time of application; the way in which the applicant can satisfy the State via documentation or statements that he or she is obliged to return to the applicant's country of origin after the visit; and if qualifications such as university qualifications and language certificates such as the international English language testing system, IELTS, affect the likelihood of obtaining a visa. [4204/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy may wish to know that the Immigration Service Delivery website contains comprehensive guidelines to assist with the application process and the documents required. The documentation needed for the various visa application types can be found by choosing the appropriate visa option on the web page: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Apply%20for%20a%20visa.

It should be noted, however, that the information contained on the website is for guidance purposes only and does not limit the discretion of the Visa Officer in dealing with individual applications to request additional documents. Each visa application is assessed on its own merits and therefore, all information that an applicant wishes to have taken into consideration should be included when an application is being submitted.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited. In addition, applicants may themselves e-mail queries directly to [e-mail].

Residency Permits

Questions (348)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

348. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4221/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The persons referred to have submitted representations to me under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) detailing why deportation orders should not be made in respect of them.

These applications will be given full consideration. These cases are amongst many to be considered at present and, as such, it is not possible at this point in time to provide a specific indication as to when the case will be finalised.

However, both persons can be assured that there will be no avoidable delay in having their case brought to finality. Once a decision has been made the persons referred to will be notified in writing of the outcome.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the Immigration Service of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the Immigration Service is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Residency Permits

Questions (349)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

349. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding eligibility of residency status, stamp 4 and-or eligibility for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4222/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I can inform the Deputy that the person referred to is the subject of a Deportation Order made on 25 August 2017. The effect of a Deportation Order is that the person named on the Order is legally obliged to leave the State and to remain outside of the State. The enforcement of the Deportation Order is an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned pursuant to Section 3 (11) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), to revoke the Deportation Order. Following the consideration of those representations, a decision was taken in July 2018 that the Deportation Order should be affirmed and this decision was communicated to the person concerned by registered post (dated 8 May 2019).

All Registration Offices for non-Dublin residents operated by An Garda Síochána have temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Consequently, the requirement of an individual to present to the GNIB on foot of a Deportation Order is temporarily suspended and the GNIB will make contact once the restrictions have been lifted.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the email service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Firearms Licences

Questions (350)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

350. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if members of the PSNI who are citizens of this State and reside primarily here are permitted to carry their PSNI-issued firearms across the Border when off duty in view of the fact that PSNI officers are permitted to carry their issued firearms while off duty in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4231/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will appreciate that, for security reasons, it is a long standing practice not to comment in detail on any matter which may have implications for the safety of law enforcement personnel.

I can say that there are stringent controls under Irish legislation on the issue of firearm certificates and the conditions under which firearms can be held.

Any application to possess a firearm in this jurisdiction is examined having regard to the provisions of the Firearms Acts 1925 to 2009.

Garda Accommodation

Questions (351)

James Browne

Question:

351. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when work will commence on the refurbishment of the Garda immigration facility at Rosslare Harbour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4242/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Garda Commissioner is statutorily responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no responsibility for these matters. I am assured however that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.

As the Deputy is aware, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. Works in relation to Garda accommodation are therefore progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the OPW.

The Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is based on agreed Garda priorities. It continues to benefit over 30 locations around the country, underpinned by significant Exchequer funding across the Garda and OPW Votes. The programme does not include the re-development or refurbishment of the Garda immigration facility at Rosslare Harbour.

However I am advised that the OPW visited the facility in 2019 and that Gardaí have provided the OPW with a brief of requirements including proposals for a replacement facility. As the Deputy will appreciate, consideration of the matter is an ongoing, deliberative process between An Garda Síochána and the OPW and as such, it is not possible to provide further information at this time.

Legislative Reviews

Questions (352, 353, 367)

Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

352. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his Department will be undertaking a review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 in 2020; if so, the terms of reference for the review; if the review will be undertaken by independent experts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4294/20]

Roderic O'Gorman

Question:

353. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if women, men and trans persons who work as sex workers will be provided an opportunity to input into the review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4295/20]

Joan Collins

Question:

367. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the review of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 has commenced; the person or body involved in the review; the person or body that will be included in the review; when it will be finalised; and if it has not commenced, when it will commence. [4520/20]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

I propose to take Questions Nos. 352, 353 and 367 together.

As the Deputies noted, Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017 is due to be reviewed this year. This review arises under the provisions of the Act itself, and will include an assessment of the impact of the Act on the welfare of those who engage in sexual activity for payment.

The terms of reference for the review have been finalised and I expect to make a formal announcement in that regard in the very near future.

The review will be conducted in an open and consultative manner and will take a broad approach to ensure consideration of the full range of issues raised in relation to the purchase of sex, can be examined in the context of the review. Deputies will appreciate that the approach to be adopted for the review, including the means for consultation with stakeholders, will need to take account of the current context of the Covid-19 pandemic. The approach to be adopted will be announced as soon as possible.

Finally, I can confirm that the report will be published by my Department when complete.