John O'Donoghue
Ceist:13 Mr. O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Justice whether she intends to introduce legislation with a view to regulating the security industry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3895/96]
Written Answers. - Security Industry.
Following the robbery at the Brink's-Allied premises last year, I requested officials in my Department to carry out a review of the issues involved in the possible statutory regulation of the private security industry and to report to me whether regulation might be reasonably expected to reduce the possibility of further such robberies at commercial premises and, in general, result in an improved service to the public.
It is important to remember that the security industry covers a large area of commercial activity, providing security for the storage and transit of cash, commercial security, the supply and installation of intruder-fire alarms, sales and other security equipment, the provision of a 24 hour monitoring and answering service for alarm-call and emergency call-out facilities, providing security for individuals and their homes, and private investigations — these are just some of the areas covered by this industry.
The industry has a number of representative groups including the Irish Security Industry Association, the International Professional Security Association, the Security Institute of Ireland and the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association and a certain amount of self-regulation already takes place in the industry.
This review is nearing completion and it has involved an examination of a number of important issues in the private security industry. I am concerned that the industry which is contracted to protect money, property and persons operates to the highest possible security standards and my review is to consider what is the best way to achieve that objective in this complex and sensitive area. The review also takes place in the context of the continuing growth of the security industry and the wide range of functions in now carries out. The position regarding the regulation of the security industry in other jurisdictions is also being examined in detail. In this regard, my Department has been in contact with the Home Office and has been appraised of the similar debate on regulation which has been taking place in the United Kingdom for some considerable time.
I will be happy to appraise the Deputy of the conclusions of the review at the earliest opportunity and, in the meantime, I will give careful consideration to any proposals or suggestions that he may have in this regard.