Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 June 2022
1308. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Justice the level of training that is provided to members of An Garda Síochána to facilitate engagement with members of the disabled community, especially those with invisible disabilities such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, and acquired brain injury; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29561/22]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including Garda training matters. As Minister, I have no role in this regards.
I am assured by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána are acutely aware of the importance of respecting neurodiversity and of the training needs which Gardaí require in order to provide an appropriate service to autistic people, people with ADHD, with acquired brain injury and any other condition which may not be immediately apparent. An Garda Síochána strives to provide an comprehensive and inclusive policing service, focused on community policing, and in their engagement with members of the public, all Gardaí are alert to the need to recognise potential neurodiversity and respond respectfully and appropriately.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as part of An Garda Síochána's e-learning Human Rights module, there are 5 sessions available to undertake on the Garda Learning Management System (LMS). These 5 sessions include:
- Session 1: Unconscious Bias
- Session 2: Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Session 3: Hidden Disability - Neuro Diversity Deep Dive & ADHD
- Session 4: Mental Health Awareness and
- Session 5: Suicide Prevention & Intervention.
The Deputy will also be aware that all Garda trainees complete the BA in Applied Policing programme. The programme's Community Centred Policing module aims to equip the students with the personal and professional expertise to proactively police Ireland's diverse community.
I am advised that the programme is delivered in a blended learning approach using Problem Based Learning (PBL). I am also advised that the content in the programme is designed to replicate real life Garda Investigations and covers the following themes:
1. Community Centred Policing
2. Roads Policing
3. Investigative Policing
4. Officer and Public Safety and
5. Professional Competence.
I understand that there are modules covering a range of relevant general skills including communication and the use of the Garda Decision Making Model.
I also understand that as part of Phase 1 of the Community Centred Policing Module, there is an emphasis on an understanding of theoretical issues relating to a broad range of communities and vulnerable persons, and the application of strategies to support the delivery of a community policing service.
Phase 1 of the Community Centred Policing Module also builds on skills to allow a deeper engagement and interaction between Gardaí and community members. This understanding allows for Trainee Gardaí to recognise not only those at risk but all sectors of the community that may benefit from Garda presence, involvement and support.
Regarding autism awareness specifically, I am informed that AsIAm, Ireland's National Autism Charity Group, has delivered a presentation to approximately 200 students. AsIAm also delivered training workshops on how individuals can support the Autistic community by making their organisations, clubs, communities and educational institutes, autism friendly. I am informed that the feedback was very positive from the sessions and pleased to note that An Garda Síochána have contacted AsIAm with a view to using an e-learning module on these matters for Trainee Gardaí into the future.
