Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 April 2017
109. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the detail of the recommended code of ethics for An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17525/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI was pleased to launch the Code of Ethics for An Garda Síochána in January of this year. The Code clearly defines principles to guide the decisions that those in policing make in everything they do. The emphasis of the Code is on what good policing looks like and how police officers and staff should behave. These principles are captured under the following headings:
- Duty to uphold the law;
- Honesty and integrity;
- Respect and equality;
- Authority and responsibility;
- Police powers;
- Information and privacy;
- Transparency and communication;
- Speaking up and reporting wrongdoing; and
- Leadership.
The Code has a statutory basis under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended) and was developed by the Policing Authority and An Garda Síochána in conjunction with a range of stakeholders and is an important milestone. I particularly welcome the commitment by An Garda Síochána in the Policing Plan 2017 to embed this Code into the day to day thinking and actions of the organisation, so that it becomes rooted in police culture, throughout the ranks and throughout the organisation. Adherence to this Code is a declaration to the public that An Garda Síochána is acting in the public's interests, and believes in a culture that embraces integrity and the highest ethical standards.
The Authority will oversee the implementation of the Code and will review it periodically to keep it up to date with policing standards. A copy of the Code of Ethics can be accessed on the Authority's website at www.policingauthority.ie.
