asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the schemes which are in operation to compensate Garda officers or their families injured or killed in course of their duties; whether any changes are proposed in such schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Garda Compensation Scheme.
25.
The Garda Síochána have a special scheme of compensation for themselves or, in the event of death, for their dependants, in respect of malicious injuries. It is contained in the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts, 1941 and 1945. There is no such scheme in respect of accidential injuries.
However, gardaí on sick leave as a result of injury on duty, whether malicious or accidental, continue to be paid full pay for as long as there is a likelihood of their returning to duty. Medical expenses are paid also. In the event of their having to retire they are paid special pension benefits which can be as much as the equivalent of full pay, depending on service and degree of disability. In the event of death, there are special pension benefits for dependants.
The compensation arrangements are at present being reviewed by the Garda Conciliation Council. As, under the provisions of the conciliation and arbitration scheme, the proceedings of the council are confidential, it would not be appropriate for me to say any more on the matter.