Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 May 2023
199. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Justice when the last full meeting of the Garda national diversity and integration forum took place; what supports are in place to assist the forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25405/23]
View answerI am advised by the Garda authorities that, in line with the Garda Diversity and Integration Strategy, the Garda National Diversity and Integration Unit (GNDIU) established a Garda National Diversity and Integration Forum to monitor and review the implementation of the strategy, and also to act as a critical friend. The Forum is made up of a number of representatives of communities and key stakeholders from across the entire diversity spectrum.
While the monitoring function of the Forum is to ensure An Garda Síochána carry out the commitments in the strategy, it also provides a link to minority communities, and provides a voice for concerns within those communities.
The last meeting of the Forum took place on 3 May 2023. This forum is fully supported by Assistant Commissioner Hilman, RPCE and the Garda National Diversity and Integration Unit based in the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau.
I am further advised that the forum includes representatives from the following organisations:
• Cross Cavan Cross Cultural Community
• Irish Criminal Justice and Disability Network
• Immigrant Council of Ireland
• Southside Travellers
• The Federation for Victim Assistance
• Third Age Ireland
• LGBT Ireland
• Dublin City Interfaith Forum
• Islamic Culture Centre of Ireland
• Irish Network Against Racism
