Protected Disclosures

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 October 2022

Tuesday, 4 October 2022

Questions (529)

John McGuinness

Question:

529. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice the progress that she is making with a protected disclosure submitted to her by an individual (details supplied) who was once employed in the Prison Service and who has spoken publicly about their experiences and grievances; if she has processed the disclosure in line with current legislation; and if she will reach out to the individual concerned to determine whether a solution can be found to the matters raised. [47925/22]

Written answers

Minister for Justice

As the Deputy is aware, the Protected Disclosures Act was enacted in 2014 to allow employees to bring alleged wrongdoing to the attention of the appropriate authorities.

The Act also affords very important protections to persons making protected disclosures. I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate therefore that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on nor confirm the existence of any specific protected disclosure. The protection of those wishing to make a protected disclosure rightly prioritises the confidentiality of the process, which is central to the efficacy of that process.