An Garda Síochána

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 November 2022

Tuesday, 29 November 2022

Questions (550, 551)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

550. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if she will provide an update on the deployment of body cameras for An Garda Síochána. [58850/22]

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

551. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if new legislation is necessary in order to provide body cameras to members of An Garda Síochána. [58851/22]

Written answers

Minister for Justice

I propose to take Questions Nos. 550 and 551 together.

The Deputy may be aware that the Government published the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Bill 2022 on 4 August 2022, which will provide a legal basis for the deployment and use of body-worn cameras by An Garda Síochána.

The Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland stated in their report that policing organisations around the world have found that such devices can help improve front-line capability with the accurate recording of incidents, expedite analysis, enhance situational awareness, and sometimes protect police from harm.

Deployment of these devices, including related timelines, will be an operational matter for the Garda Commissioner. I am advised that the Commissioner intends to pilot the use of body worn cameras, prior to their widespread roll-out.

Question No. 551 answered with Question No. 550.