Garda Policing Plans

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 April 2017

Tuesday, 4 April 2017

Ceisteanna (144)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

144. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the consultation that she and the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport had with the Garda Commissioner prior to her announcement of an overhaul of the management of road safety in An Garda Síochána; the input they had into these proposed changes; if she will provide a full report on these proposed changes, with an estimated start date for implementation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16596/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality

The Garda Commissioner is responsible for operational matters such as the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. The issue of pre-consultation in relation to the restructuring of road traffic policing and the creation of a new Roads Policing Unit does not therefore arise. Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing and organisational priorities, so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.

I understand that the restructuring process is being led by Assistant Commissioner Mick Finn and I expect that he will be in a position to provide a further update to the Policing Authority at its public meeting with Garda management later this month.