asked the Minister for Justice if the section of the Conroy Report relating to Garda disciplinary regulations is being accepted by the Government; and if he will ensure that no further disciplinary charges will be preferred against members of the Garda Síochána until the new regulations are drafted and implemented.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Conroy Report on Garda Discipline.
70.
No decision has been reached in regard to the recommendation in the Conroy Report relating to the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations.
In January, 1969, the Representative Body for Gardaí were asked for observations on a draft scheme to which, so far, they have not replied. It is understood that the Representative Body, and the Commissioner, have the matter under review and I expect to get from the Commissioner a report in the very near future.
The discipline regulations now in force were made pursuant to section 14 of the Police Force Amalgamation Act, 1925, and until new regulations are made, offences must be dealt with in accordance with law.
Does the Minister believe that a man who told a garda, when executing his duty, that he would have him stripped of his rank if he dared to prosecute him, is a proper man now to have in charge of discipline in this important force?
That does not arise.
That is quite untrue.
Surely it arises as far as the Taoiseach is concerned?
That is not true.
That is quite true and the Minister knows it. You told the gentleman that you would have him stripped of his rank if he dared to prosecute you.
I know perfectly well it is untrue and I think it is disgraceful that the Deputy should raise a matter such as that.
That is no trouble to him.
The Deputy should behave himself.
It is not disgraceful and the letter came from a Fianna Fáil man, a friend of the Minister's.
Would the Deputy please resume his seat? Question No. 71.
It is a disgrace that a man can attack the police in that way and then be appointed Minister for Justice.
(Interruptions.)
Question No. 71.