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Private Security Authority

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 September 2020

Tuesday, 29 September 2020

Questions (722)

Marian Harkin

Question:

722. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Justice if she will consider an extension to the Private Security Authority, PSA, licensing period for those working in the sector and whose income has collapsed due to guidelines on Covid-19; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26967/20]

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Written answers

As the Deputy may be aware the Private Security Authority (PSA), established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, as amended, is responsible for the licensing and regulation of the private security industry in the State. The PSA is an independent statutory body under the aegis of my Department and I have no involvement in the day-to-day operations of the Authority. The duration of licences and the requirements for obtaining a licence are matters for the Board of the PSA. 

However, I can inform the Deputy that in April 2020, the Board of the PSA submitted proposals to my Department for a change in the licence fee for contractors. This proposal took account of the impact of the COVID-19 restrictions on the security industry and also the additional costs which will arise from implementing the new health and safety requirements in the workplace.

Having considered this matter, I requested the Board of the PSA to review their proposal in light of the residual impact of COVID-19 on the security industry.

I understand, that the PSA discussed the matter at their recent Board meeting and that revised proposals will be submitted to my Department shortly.  

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