Written Answers Nos. 1103-1122
1103. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice to address the following matters (details supplied) with respect to finger printing, cross-checking and verification processes related to international protection applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1492/24]
View answerThe Deputy will appreciate that the establishment of a person’s identity and nationality is an important feature of our immigration processes.
When a person makes an application for international protection, they are photographed and have their fingerprints taken. These fingerprints are then checked against the EURODAC database, an EU-wide immigration database which stores the fingerprints of asylum applicants and those who have crossed borders illegally. EURODAC is not a criminal records database, however, the underpinning regulations permit law enforcement agencies to compare fingerprints linked to criminal investigations with those contained on EURODAC in certain circumstances involving serious criminal offences.
Character and conduct checks are carried out through An Garda Síochána where consideration is being given to granting an applicant an international protection status or discretionary permission to remain in the State.
In relation to countries of origin which will not be a party to the EURODAC database, it would be in breach of our responsibilities in respect of refugee protection to contact the consular or police authorities in relation to persons who have sought the protection of the Irish State as doing so may have the consequence of making such authorities aware of an applicant’s presence in the State, and their claim for international protection.
If an international protection applicant does not generate a “hit” on EURODAC, because they have not had an immigration interaction with another EU State, and they do not have identifying documentation, their international protection claim must still be processed. Their claim, as with all international protection claims, will be determined on the grounds set out in the International Protection Act 2015.
In addition to checks specifically on those applying for international protection, every person arriving at a port of entry in the State is subject to a Schengen Information System (SIS) check. In that regard, Ireland sends and receives SIS II information (termed ‘Alerts’) on persons and objects; for example persons wanted by Member States for criminal purposes, missing persons and objects which have been stolen or are wanted as evidence for a judicial purpose.
In relation to the iFADO database, this is utilised by Immigration Officers in Ireland as required in the course of their work. iFADO is an internet-based image-archiving system set up to support the rapid sharing between EU Member States of images of genuine, false and forged documents .
1104. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice the number of persons who claimed asylum or international protection at Dublin Airport for each year since 2011; the number of persons who have claimed asylum or international protection at an International Protection Office after having entered the State for each year from 2011 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1493/24]
View answerThe State is required to examine the application of anyone who presents at the borders of the State, or is in the State, and indicates that they wish to make an application for international protection. This is in accordance with our obligations under international and EU asylum law.
There is no obligation on an applicant to make an application for international protection at a designated port of entry. An applicant can lodge their initial application directly with the IPO after arrival in the State.
A significant cohort are understood to be arriving in the state to make an International Protection Applications via the land border with Northern Ireland.
It has long been the case that a small proportion of the travel within the CTA in both directions is used by people for irregular purposes.
There is very good co-operation at operational level between the Border Management Unit (BMU), Garda National immigration Bureau (GNIB) and colleagues in the UK Border Force and Immigration Enforcement. A particular focus is on working to secure the external border of the CTA.
In addition there are a number of ongoing operations, in co-operation with the UK, tackling abuses of the CTA by identifying illegal secondary movement patterns within the CTA and taking actions to disrupt such abuse.
The table below provides the breakdown of the number of international protection applications recorded between 2017 and to end of 2023 by “place of application”.
IP Applications - Place of Application*
|
- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year of Application |
IPO |
Airports |
Ports |
Other |
Total |
|
2017 |
2,108 |
724 |
12 |
76 |
2,920 |
|
2018 |
2,211 |
1338 |
11 |
114 |
3,674 |
|
2019 |
2,277 |
2,384 |
9 |
112 |
4,782 |
|
2020 |
1,239 |
284 |
4 |
39 |
1,566 |
|
2021 |
2,101 |
513 |
9 |
25 |
2,648 |
|
2022 |
8,791 |
4,797 |
35 |
26 |
13,649 |
|
2023 |
10,350 |
2,873 |
14 |
40 |
13,277 |
* These figures are correct at time of issue, however, statistics may change due to data cleansing.
Please note that although the Deputy has asked for figures from 2011 onwards, statistics pre-2017 are not easily available in the manner sought as data would have to be extracted from a number of legacy systems. With the introduction of the International Protection Act in 2016 and the creation of the International Protection Office a new database allows for easier collation of data in more recent years therefore we have provided figures from 2017 onwards only.
1105. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice when a decision will be made on an application by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1502/24]
View answerWhere a person has made an application for international protection, there is a legal requirement under the International Protection Act 2015 to maintain full confidentiality at all times. Therefore the Department is unable to publish any information that would identify an international protection applicant.
If an application for international protection has been made in the State, the applicant or their designated legal advisor should contact the International Protection Office (IPO) or the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) directly, as appropriate. This will enable a full and comprehensive reply to be provided.
Both the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) are fully independent in deciding whether or not to grant international protection. Each application is examined individually on its own merits, in line with national and international asylum law.
The International Protection Office may be contacted: by email to info@ipo.gov.ie; by telephone to the IPO Customer Service Centre at 01 6028000 or in writing to Customer Service Centre, International Protection Office, 79-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
The International Protection Appeals Tribunal may be contacted either: by email to info@protectionappeals.ie; by telephone at 01-4748400 (or Lo-Call 1890 201 458), or in writing to Corporate Services Division, The International Protection Appeals Tribunal, 6-7 Hanover Street East, Dublin D02 W320.
Information and an overview of the application process for international protection applicants can be found on the IPO website here: www.ipo.gov.ie/en/IPO/Pages/Assessment_of_Application.
Information on how to make an appeal to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal, as well as how to access legal advice can be found here: www.protectionappeals.ie/how-to-appeal/.
The Department's website also provides a detailed overview of the International Protection process in Ireland which can be accessed at: www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/304ba-international-protection/.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases (excepting those relating to an international protection applicant) may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the parliamentary questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
1106. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of persons recruited to An Garda Síochána in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [1512/24]
View answerThe Government is committed to providing An Garda Síochána with the resources it needs to ensure communities around Ireland are safe and feel safe.
This is reflected in the allocation of €2.3 billion in Budget 2024 to An Garda Síochána, a 23% increase since 2020. This funding provides for 800-1000 new Garda recruits. Growing the strength of An Garda Síochána to 15,000 and beyond.
There has also been a significant increase in the training allowance paid to trainees to €305 per week, and the maximum age of recruitment has been increased from 35 to 50.
The Government will continue to provide An Garda Síochána with the resources it needs to ensure communities around Ireland are safe and feel safe, including to invest in recruitment, in equipment and technology and in buildings.
Recruitment into An Garda Síochána has accelerated following the forced closure of the Garda College during Covid-19, with 746 trainees entering Templemore last year. A new Garda recruitment competition launched this week and will help ensure a steady pipeline on recruits entering Templemore in the near future. The total intake of 746 for 2023 represents a six-fold increase on 2022’s intake of 116. It is the highest intake into the Garda College since 2018.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the table below shows the number of Garda recruits for the last 5 years:
|
Year |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
Total |
|
Garda Recruits |
605 |
522 |
148 |
370 |
388 |
2043 |
I expect the number of recruits in 2024 will increase further with high numbers going through the Garda College at present.
1107. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí who took early retirement in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [1513/24]
View answerI have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. Unfortunately, the information was not received in time. I will contact the Deputy directly once the information is to hand.
1108. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí who have left the force in each of the past years, in tabular form. [1514/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, • including all human resource matters and recruitment. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions.
I am however committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána have the resources they need to keep our urban and rural communities safe. This is reflected in the unprecedented allocation of over €2.3 billion in Budget 2024. This funding is allowing for sustained investment in recruitment, technology and equipment.
The below table, provided to me by the Garda authorities, outlines the number of Gardaí who have left An Garda Síochána in each of the past five years. These figures include Voluntary Retirements, Compulsory Retirements, Cost Neutral Early Retirements, Resignations, Dismissals, Deaths in Service and Medical Discharges.
|
Year |
Number |
|
2023 |
520 |
|
2022 |
476 |
|
2021 |
405 |
|
2020 |
337 |
|
2019 |
333 |
|
Total |
2071 |
Across 2023 we have seen recruitment into An Garda Síochána gain real momentum. While there were 319 retirements and 169 resignations in 2023, 746 trainees entered Templemore last year. This is the highest intake into Templemore since 2018.
As the Deputy may be aware, a new Garda Recruitment competition was launched on 15 January. I am very pleased to see Garda recruits once again regularly entering training at Templemore, and this competition will ensure there is a continuous pipeline of new trainees.
We have put in place measures to make a career in An Garda Síochána more attractive and to lower the barriers to access by increasing the training allowance paid to trainees to €305 per week and increasing the maximum age of recruitment from 35 to 50.
While of course we don't want to see members leaving An Garda Síochána, I must emphasise the numbers remain very low. As of November 2023, there were just under 14,000 Garda members with the rate of resignations at around 1%.
An Garda Síochána have introduced their own exit interviews to get a clearer view on why people may choose to resign and, where appropriate, to address issues which may influence retention. These voluntary exit interviews are conducted by a chartered occupational psychologist working within the Garda Human Resources and People Development department.
1109. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí who have been assaulted while on duty in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [1515/24]
View answerI have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. Unfortunately, the information was not received in time. I will contact the Deputy directly once the information is to hand.
|
Year |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
Total |
|
Number |
266 |
223 |
266 |
314 |
431 |
1500 |
1110. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí who have taken stress leave in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [1516/24]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána is committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of all Garda members and Garda staff. This commitment is reflected in the €6 million allocated for Garda wellbeing initiatives, additional medical costs and over 2,500 units of body armour in Budget 2024.
I also want to make it clear that I am very aware of how stressful and difficult the work of members of An Garda Síochána can be. There are a number of support systems in place to help Gardaí address issues of stress and mental health, including the Employee Assistance Service, trauma counselling, Psychological Support Programme, as well as peer support.
In recent years, An Garda Síochána launched 'Keeping Our People Supported', the Health and Wellbeing Strategy Statement and Action Plan 2021-2023. This plan identified three key goals to improve the health and welfare of Gardaí.
These goals were to identify, communicate and enhance existing resources to promote health, wellbeing and work ability across the organisation, to develop partnerships with key stakeholders inside and outside the organisation in order to build capacity, and to provide support and advice.
A new wellbeing app KOPS ("Keeping Our People Supported") was launched as part of the strategy. The app makes support available to members of An Garda Síochána on a 24/7 basis and can be accessed on any mobile device. It was created to ensure members who may be distressed and in need of urgent assistance can access the supports available to them at any time.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there is no specific sub-category on the Sickness Absence Management System (SAMS) for the recording of absences due to stress, anxiety or depression but in some cases, this is recorded under the Mental Health sub-category or in the comments field against another sub-category.
The following statistics have been compiled using the Mental Health illness subcategory. There is no guarantee that all absences due to stress, anxiety or depression have been recorded under this sub-category.
Number of members recorded as taking sickness absence due to mental health illness
|
2023 |
39 |
|
2022 |
50 |
|
2021 |
47 |
|
2020 |
51 |
|
2019 |
54 |
Please note that the figures are operational and may be subject to change.
I am also advised that the figures for 2019 – 2022 are acquired from the Annual Commissioner Reports and are correct at the time each yearly report is run.
1111. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí working in road policing at present, and in each of the past five years. [1517/24]
View answerRoad safety is a shared responsibility, and it is one which this Government takes very seriously. We have all been shocked by the recent loss of life on our roads, and concerned by the worrying increase in road fatalities in 2023, and into the early days of the New Year, after many years of progress in making our roads safer.
Road traffic legislation is enforced as part of the day-to-day duties of members of An Garda Síochána and, to assist with this, the Government are committed to providing the funding needed to continue to ramp up Garda recruitment.
I am informed by Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána is committed to working closely with all road safety agencies to focus on high risk behaviour with the key objective of reducing the number of serious injury collisions and fatalities on our roads.
Budget 2024 provides for 800-1000 new Garda recruits. Growing the strength of An Garda Síochána to 15,000 and beyond will allow the further expansion of specialist units, including the roads policing unit.
Also as part of Budget 2024, €3.6m additional funding has been allocated for GoSafe speed cameras, continuing the increased level of 9,000 hours a month announced last year through the whole of 2024.
As the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the allocation and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for personnel matters and the distribution of personnel across the various Garda Divisions. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I am assured that the Commissioner keeps the allocation of these resources under continued review, in line with crime and population trends, to ensure their optimum use.
It is important to note that while a number of Gardaí are assigned to Roads Policing Units, all frontline Gardaí contribute to policing our roads and keeping them safe. On average 25% of roads policing enforcement is carried by regular members, with the exception of drug/drink driving checks, 75% of which are carried out by regular members.
For the Deputy's information, and in the interest of transparency, detailed statistics on Garda workforce numbers, including the number of Gardaí assigned to the Roads Policing Unit, are published on gov.ie and are updated regularly by my Department from information provided by An Garda Síochána. The statistics can be accessed using the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd777-an-garda-siochana-your-police-service-some-facts-and-figures/
1112. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of burglaries reported to gardaí, per county, in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [1518/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Central Statistics Office (CSO), as the national statistical agency, is responsible for the compilation and publication of all crime statistics.
The CSO produces these statistics using data recorded on An Garda Síochána’s PULSE system and makes regular releases in relation to various crime statistics. The most recent statistics were released on 20 December 2023, providing statistics for Recorded Crime for Quarter 3 (Q3) 2023.
The Deputy may wish to know, the latest release from the CSO, showed a significant decrease in burglary and related offences in the year to Q3 2023 which was less than half of incidents recorded in the year to Quarter 2 (Q2) 2019.
This continues the downward trend in burglaries which has been evident since the establishment of Operation Thor in 2015 to tackle burglary and prosecute offenders. One of the main focus areas of Operation Thor is crime prevention through visible, focused patrols at specific times of day, targeting burglary ‘hot-spots’ and also utilising high-visibility check points that prevent ease of movement.
Operation Thor also aims to reduce burglaries by ensuring every burglary is appropriately investigated to the highest possible standard and by monitoring crime data for changes in trends of burglaries, associated crimes and detection rates.
Since Operation Thor was launched in 2015 there has been a 75% reduction in residential burglaries.
The currently ongoing Winter Phase of Operation Thor is designed to tackle burglaries and associated criminal activities, which often increase in the darker winter months, through targeted enforcement and crime prevention activity and information.
Last week alone, Gardaí attached to the DMR North Division, made 34 arrests following a comprehensive policing operation conducted as part of Operation Thor in North Dublin. I understand that 32 of those arrested have been charged with a total of 70 offences including offences for burglary and possession of stolen property.
Figures in respect of Burglary and Related offences by County for years in question can be found on the CSO website at the following link:
data.cso.ie/table/CJQ06
1113. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of stabbings/knife crimes, reported to gardaí, per county, in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [1519/24]
View answerI strongly condemn any use of knives to threaten, intimidate or harm others. The Government, and I as Minister, are committed to ensuring that the problems that we have seen in neighbouring jurisdictions do not repeat themselves here.
As the Deputy will be aware, 'knife crime' is a broad term, which has no official classification in crime statistics compiled by An Garda Síochána and published by the Central Statistics Office.
This is because knives may be used in the commission of many different types of offence, ranging from threats and intimidation, robbery and aggravated burglary to serious assaults and murder. There are many complex, interlinked and variable causes for the use of knives in the commission of offences. As a result, there are no quick-fix solutions to tackling knife crime.
Long term, evidence-based strategies are needed that address knife crime as part of a wider strategic response to anti-social behaviour, street violence, youth offending and domestic violence.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that, when considering trends in knife related crime, it is important to look at multiple perspectives to get the complete picture. An Garda Síochána produced a report in February 2021 analysing trends in knife related crime, available at the following link:
www.garda.ie/en/about-us/publications/general-reports/analysis-of-knife-related-crime-data-february-2021.pdf
I am advised that an updated report, to end of 2023, is being prepared with a view to publication when complete.
There is also a comprehensive and robust legal framework in place in Ireland with respect to knife crime, including heavy penalties for breaches of the laws concerned with the maximum penalty for possessing a knife in a public place, without good reason or lawful authority, of five years.
In addition, the Government recently doubled the maximum penalty for assault causing harm to 10 years. The offence of assault causing serious harm has a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Additionally, the Anti-Social Behaviour Forum, which I chair, is examining a broad range of issues, with a focus on developing measures which will address the factors that give rise to anti-social behaviour and its impact on community morale and quality of life. The causes of anti-social behaviour are multifaceted and complex and include, but are not limited to, addiction, unemployment, social and economic issues.
Members of the Forum are drawn from a number of State agencies, including An Garda Síochána, the Probation Service and key Government Departments, as well as a broad representation of community, business, academic and other experts.
To date, four sub-groups of the Forum have been established to consider specific issues, including knife crime. Similar sub-groups can be established to examine other issues as required. A number of options are being considered including increasing public awareness and the review of sentences for those convicted of certain knife crime offences in Ireland.
1114. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of speeding fines issued in each county, in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [1520/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the recording of traffic offences. As Minister for Justice, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am informed by Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána is committed to working closely with all road safety agencies to focus on high risk behaviour with the key objective of reducing the number of serious injury collisions and fatalities on our roads.
Budget 2024 provides for 800-1000 new Garda recruits. Growing the strength of An Garda Síochána to 15,000 and beyond will allow the further expansion of specialist units, including the roads policing unit.
Also as part of Budget 2024, €3.6m additional funding has been allocated for GoSafe speed cameras, continuing the increased level of 9,000 hours a month announced last year through the whole of 2024.
The role of the Safety Camera Contract is critical in the context of road traffic enforcement, improving road safety by changing driver behaviour. This is in order to reduce road traffic fatalities and serious injuries by reducing the incidence of drivers exceeding stipulated speed limits, in circumstances where speeding is known to be a significant factor behind serious collisions.
The table below, provided by the Garda authorities, sets out the yearly breakdown per division of the Fixed Charge Notices issued for speeding. All information is operational and may be subject to change.
|
Division |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
|
Clare/Tipperary |
14835 |
12096 |
13251 |
9545 |
9459 |
8072 |
11589 |
13168 |
17226 |
21581 |
|
Cork City |
7894 |
6709 |
5009 |
4917 |
3203 |
4092 |
7164 |
12250 |
10449 |
8166 |
|
Cork North |
10281 |
8331 |
7977 |
4553 |
5078 |
4940 |
6607 |
6316 |
7409 |
4937 |
|
Cork West |
4709 |
5974 |
4683 |
3365 |
5464 |
4849 |
3444 |
4034 |
4571 |
3071 |
|
D.M.R. Eastern |
7755 |
5648 |
4273 |
4007 |
3439 |
4400 |
5529 |
4024 |
4526 |
3028 |
|
D.M.R. North Central |
3002 |
5161 |
2849 |
4354 |
3064 |
3325 |
4010 |
3688 |
2479 |
2502 |
|
D.M.R. Northern |
9799 |
10748 |
10827 |
10502 |
8179 |
8668 |
11682 |
9672 |
7245 |
5557 |
|
D.M.R. South Central |
7515 |
5572 |
5582 |
4743 |
3723 |
3014 |
2736 |
2648 |
2729 |
1949 |
|
D.M.R. Southern |
2650 |
3128 |
2233 |
1530 |
1623 |
1535 |
3438 |
3690 |
4601 |
4413 |
|
D.M.R. Western |
15974 |
22054 |
11343 |
7464 |
2742 |
3302 |
12895 |
8704 |
8639 |
7913 |
|
Donegal |
4744 |
4758 |
4285 |
3108 |
2887 |
3344 |
3743 |
3715 |
3808 |
3170 |
|
Galway Div |
13719 |
13117 |
9276 |
9820 |
9039 |
9476 |
13815 |
10625 |
12456 |
9160 |
|
Kerry |
5514 |
4215 |
5577 |
3236 |
3552 |
4108 |
3846 |
4043 |
3331 |
3886 |
|
Kildare Div |
15522 |
17510 |
15475 |
13821 |
14863 |
12830 |
12700 |
15623 |
11132 |
9775 |
|
Kilkenny/Carlow |
9955 |
9611 |
7227 |
5694 |
5266 |
5060 |
5079 |
6102 |
4313 |
5515 |
|
Laois/Offaly |
7243 |
3929 |
4714 |
5232 |
4665 |
5335 |
6723 |
8706 |
6544 |
6214 |
|
Limerick |
17035 |
20867 |
11776 |
9527 |
10793 |
10908 |
8543 |
9253 |
9130 |
7597 |
|
Louth/Cavan/Monaghan |
12835 |
10097 |
8585 |
7423 |
6548 |
6804 |
10530 |
9865 |
9040 |
10453 |
|
Mayo/Roscommon/Longford |
8973 |
5870 |
8100 |
8418 |
5770 |
8488 |
8341 |
6524 |
5161 |
5042 |
|
Meath/Westmeath |
14728 |
13646 |
6163 |
8371 |
8180 |
6778 |
13197 |
12482 |
13273 |
12288 |
|
Sligo/Leitrim |
8440 |
5529 |
4556 |
3556 |
3175 |
3123 |
1910 |
3143 |
2173 |
2250 |
|
Waterford Division |
7166 |
8119 |
5960 |
3021 |
5197 |
5023 |
5521 |
5954 |
5328 |
5244 |
|
Wexford Division |
8212 |
9162 |
6789 |
6718 |
4635 |
4492 |
5124 |
5157 |
4416 |
4724 |
|
Wicklow Division |
8240 |
6050 |
5179 |
5290 |
5569 |
5174 |
13097 |
10465 |
5722 |
5462 |
|
Total |
226740 |
217901 |
171689 |
148215 |
136113 |
137140 |
181263 |
179851 |
165701 |
153897 |
1115. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the number of drug seizures made by gardaí in each of the past ten years, by county, in tabular form. [1522/24]
View answerAt the outset I would like to assure the Deputy that tackling drug dealing and associated criminal activity is a top priority for An Garda Síochána and the Government. An Garda Síochána continues to target those involved in the sale and supply of illegal drugs including through Operation Tara which has a strong focus on tackling street-level dealing.
I have contacted the Garda authorities and have been advised that An Garda Síochána is unable to provide a breakdown of seizures in the form requested by the Deputy.
I am however advised by Garda authorities that reporting in relation to seizures and estimated values of specific drug types is, following analysis by Forensic Science Ireland, is available at national level via the An Garda Síochána's annual reports.
Garda Síochána Annual reports for 2012 to 2022 are available at the following link: - www.garda.ie/en/about-us/publications/annual%20reports/an-garda-siochana-annual-reports/
Furthermore, reported crime statistics for all crime types including drugs are publically available from the CSO at Garda Divisional level from Q1 2003 to Q3 2023 at the following link:
data.cso.ie/table/CJQ06
1116. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice if the review of the current two year allowable timeframe for making a claim to the Criminal Injuries Board compensation scheme has been completed; if persons who were outside the timeframe may apply at a date in the future; if the two year limit is in force for minors; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1571/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is in place to help those who have suffered personal injuries as a result of a violent crime committed against them. The scheme is administered by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal which is independent in making decisions on individual applications and in its decisions on appeals.
Currently, paragraph 20 of the Scheme provides that applications for compensation should be made as soon as possible and must be made in writing within 3 months from the date of the incident causing the injury. However, the Tribunal can, in exceptional circumstances, accept late applications up to a maximum period of 2 years following the incident.
I brought a Memo to Government in December and received approval to amend the Scheme. This amendment concerns the treatment of late applications in certain categories since the commencement of the revised Scheme in April 2021. I will be in a position to announce details of the new arrangements in the coming weeks.
In the case of minors the position under the Scheme is that where the applicant was a minor at the time of the event giving rise to the criminally inflicted injury, the time limits in place commence from the moment the applicant reaches the age of majority (that is, 18 years of age).
1117. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Justice if engagement has occurred between her Department and the Garda Commissioner in relation to the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2022, in particular the need to protect and support women who may experience increased violence as a direct result of the forthcoming Bill (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1576/24]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that combatting all forms of domestic, sexual and gender based violence (DSGBV) is a priority for me and this is something that is considered in the context of talking forward all areas of my Departments work.
This is reflected in an increase of €10m in Budget allocations in 2024 for this purpose and in the development of policy and legislation.
In addition, a new statutory based DSGBV Agency was established at the start of this year with a budget of approximately €59 million provided under Budget 2024.
One of the functions of the agency will be to drive the implementation of the Zero Tolerance Strategy on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
Under the most recent Zero Tolerance implementation plan there were 144 actions assigned to various Departments, the majority of which have, or are, progressing in line with the specified timeframes, including the following:
• The commencement of the Sex Offenders (Amendment) Act 2023 in November last year;
• The publication of the Sexual Violence Survey 2022 by the CSO which provides high quality national prevalence data on sexual violence;
• The publication of the Family Courts Bill 2022 on 1 December 2022 which provides for the creation of new dedicated Family Courts as divisions within the existing court structures;
• The production of awareness campaigns on intimate image abuse, consent and victims of crime to raise public awareness of DSGBV in all its forms and across all groups in society, to challenge established beliefs in relation to DSGBV, and to make clear the pathways to safety and supports available to victims of DSGBV.
I also recently enacted new legislation which doubles the maximum sentence for assault causing harm to 10 years, and which introduces standalone offences of stalking and non-fatal strangulation. These are commons offences in domestic violence cases and expands the range of sentencing available to judges in such cases to reflect the harm caused by such crimes.
It is recognised that historically domestic violence has been underreported due to a number of factors including societal attitudes. The CSO is now working on a Domestic Violence Survey to provide more accurate prevalence data, and a key aim of the Zero Tolerance Strategy is to increase awareness of what constitutes DSGBV and to encourage victims to report such crimes to An Garda Síochána and seek help.
In relation to the Deputy's specific question concerning the the Sale of Alcohol Bill, the Deputy may be aware, that I recently outlined my intention to separate the Bill into two Bills, and to bring forward a shorter Bill in the coming months to provide for key reforms, such as:
• The standardisation of opening hours for pubs and off-licences
• The introduction of annual late bar permit and an annual nightclub permit
• The inclusion of new grounds of objection that the premises were not operated in a manner which protects staff, patrons and performers from harassment, including sexual harassment in line with the Zero Tolerance Third National Strategy to Tackle Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence
• Strengthening of the powers of An Garda Síochána to ensure that public safety and order are maintained
The Government is committed to taking action to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and I want to assure the Deputy that my Department continues to engage with An Garda Síochána in relation to the Sale of Alcohol Bill to ensure that it contains a full suite of enforcement powers to meet their policing needs.
1118. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice if there any plans to review the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990, in particular in relation to legislation surrounding knives; if any changes are being proposed to this legislation; if any discussion has taken place in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1578/24]
View answerWe are all sadly very conscious of the effect that knife crime can have on the quality of life for local communities and I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to supporting An Garda Síochána to tackle this issue. While I am conscious that Ireland has a comparatively low level of knife crime compared to neighbouring jurisdictions, every incident where a person is stabbed is a very serious matter.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Anti-Social Behaviour Forum was established arising from a commitment in the Programme for Government in 2021 to set up a special expert forum on anti-social behaviour, to consider the effectiveness of existing legislation and propose new ways forward including new powers for An Garda Síochána and additional interventions to support parenting of offenders.
As the Deputy may also be aware, an Anti-social Behaviour Forum (ASB) knife crime subcommittee was established in 2021, as a joined-up, multi-agency approach, to consider options for legislative amendment and community-based interventions including on raising awareness of the dangers of carrying sharp weapons, as knife-crime does not simply derive from street violence, or from young offenders, and is also prevalent in domestic, sexual and gender-based violence situations.
I can inform the Deputy that the knife crime sub-group last met on 19th December to outline new proposals to address knife crime. Proposals such as increasing the penalties for more serious knife-crime offences, the previous work of the sub-group and the complimentary initiatives to tackle knife crime were discussed.
Some of these complementary initiatives include increased support of diversion for young offenders through Youth Diversion Projects (YDP), and some YDPs have been funded to address awareness raising and wraparound supports for harder to reach young people more likely to carry knives.
These proposals, including any potential amendments to existing legislation, are being consideration by my officials and key justice sector agencies and I expect to be able to make progress over the coming months.
1119. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Justice her plans to reduce the time taken for vetting and processing of applications for the naturalisation of minors, currently at 19-23 months, which is matching the time taken for the process for adults, despite the applications for minors being made through their parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1586/24]
View answerThe information requested is currently being compiled and I will write to the Deputy directly once the information is to hand.
1120. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Justice the status of a naturalisation application for Irish citizenship (details supplied); when a decision is likely to be reached, given that it is over 31 months since the application was submitted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1615/24]
View answerThe naturalisation application from the person referred to by the Deputy continues to be processed by my Department.
I understand the extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants and my Department has been working hard to clear backlogs. It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
My Department is taking a number of steps to speed up the processing of applications and a number of digitisation measures have been introduced to increase efficiency in the process, including eVetting and online payments.
My Department has recently moved from paper to online based citizenship applications. This is one of a number of measures introduced in an effort to optimise the application process and enhance the overall customer service experience. As part of the new online process customers are issued with an acknowledgment on submission of the online application. The forms provide a seamless application process and help guide applicants through what is required for an application.
Finally, I can advise the Deputy that the Citizenship Division of my Department intends to communicate regularly with all applicants on a quarterly basis into the future.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: INISOireachtasMail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
1121. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda mountain bikes attached to each Garda district within Meath division as of 9 January 2024. [1631/24]
View answerAs 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 the purchase, allocation, and effective and efficient use of Garda vehicles. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
However, to be of assistance I sought the information requested by the Deputy from An Garda Síochána and have been advised that there are currently 31 official Garda mountain bikes within the Meath / Westmeath Division, broken down as follows:
|
Division |
District |
Current Mountain Bikes |
|
Meath / Westmeath |
Trim |
3 |
|
|
Kells |
3 |
|
|
Navan |
5 |
|
|
Ashbourne |
10 |
|
|
Athlone |
6 |
|
|
Mullingar |
4 |
I am informed that the number and types of vehicles or bikes procured is based on identified operational needs, the availability of resources and is reviewed on a continual basis. Information supplied is operational and subject to change.
