Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1374. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice when the Joint Interviewing Protocol between An Garda Síochána and social workers was last reviewed; when a review is next scheduled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42215/22]
View answer1375. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice the number of joint interviews that have been undertaken by gardaí with social workers in the past 12 months, broken down by Garda district. [42216/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1374 and 1375 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including operational policing matters. As Minister, I have no role.
I am informed that a Joint Working Protocol between An Garda Síochána and Tusla is currently being drafted, which states that joint specialist interviewing by An Garda Síochána and social workers may be required. I am also informed that interviewing of both children and vulnerable adults will be covered by this protocol.
Regarding the number of joint interviews, I am informed by the Garda authorities that an interview (or joint interview) is not recorded in any structured way on PULSE that An Garda Síochána can query. It is not therefore possible to provide the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda records.
