Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 May 2017
39. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has briefed or has any contact with or from the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement regarding the ongoing issues relating to the historical and-or current financial arrangements at Templemore Garda College; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23720/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs you will be aware I have indicated my concern at the findings of the Interim Internal Audit Report in relation to the financial procedures in the Garda College Templemore. As you will also be aware, the Public Accounts Committee is examining the Garda Commissioner in relation to the Interim Audit Report and intends to resume that examination in the coming weeks, and will report subsequently. Very particular responsibilities lie with Accounting Officers and you will appreciate that I must be careful not to interfere in any way with the work of that Committee. I can assure you that I will pay very careful attention to the proceedings at the Committee and, in particular, any report they may make. If action is required on my part as a result, I will not hesitate to take it. Contact of the nature outlined in the question has not arisen.
While, of course, there has to be accountability in relation to what went on at the College, the immediate priority has to be ensuring the problems identified in the audit are resolved. I have been assured that the Garda Authorities recognise the gravity of the issues raised and that they are taking comprehensive steps to progress the recommendations in the Report. External governance expertise and auditors have been engaged. A Steering Committee, chaired by the Garda Síochána Chief Administrative Officer and including a representative from my Department, is overseeing the implementation of the recommendations. In addition, upon receipt of the report I referred it to the Policing Authority to oversee the implementation of the recommendations and to report back to me each quarter. I expect the Authority to submit its first report to me in July. Furthermore I am advised that the Commissioner has requested an Assistant Commissioner to examine the Report with a view to establishing if there are any matters of discipline or criminality that need to be addressed and, if so, how such matters should be progressed.
