Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2005
647 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of complaints against members of the Garda Síochána concerning discriminatory treatment; the decisions adopted; and the efforts he has made and will make to intensify sensitisation efforts among members of the Garda Síochána. [28693/05]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been informed that the Garda Síochána Complaints Board when recording complaints received categorises such complaints under the headings provided for in the fourth schedule of the Garda Síochána (Complaints) Act 1986. These are abuse of authority; discourtesy; neglect of duty; falsehood or prevarication; corrupt or improper practice; misuse of money or property; intoxication; discreditable conduct; and accessory to conduct specified above.
Accordingly the board, in its annual reports, categorises breaches of discipline under these headings rather than the category indicated in the question from the Deputy. The annual reports also detail the outcome of complaints and the disciplinary action recommended. These reports are laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and are also available on the web site of the complaints board at www.gscb.ie/publications. I am assured by the Garda authorities that they make every effort to ensure that members of the public are treated properly by the Garda. Abuse in any form is not tolerated and indeed all members are subject to the force’s disciplinary code.
Training in the area of discrimination and discriminatory treatment is handled at a number of levels in the Garda Síochána. In respect of students and new graduates, the subject is dealt with on the curriculum and forms an integral part of the social and psychological and contextual policing studies area. During experiential learning periods, students are also exposed to best practices in this area under the supervision of divisional training staff. Training on issues of discrimination and discriminatory treatment are included on supervisory development programmes for sergeants, inspectors, superintendents and chief superintendents. This includes development modules on human rights training, policing a multicultural society and professional values and ethical standards.
In addition, the continuous professional development core programme for 2005 contains training modules on human rights, code of ethics, racism and awareness of mental illness. The 2006 programme which is currently in the final stages of preparation will also contain modules dealing with the victims of rape and sexual assault, liaising with the families of victims of homicide as well as dealing with aged persons.
