Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2018
86. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason a licence renewal application (details supplied) is not available in Irish online; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3754/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Private Security Authority, established under the Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended), is the statutory body with responsibility for the licensing and regulation of the private security industry in the State. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department and I have no involvement in its day to day operations.
I have been informed by the Authority that it is currently in the process of moving from paper based application systems to online services. While an online renewal pplication for employees is available in English, an Irish equivalent is not.
The Authority further informs me that An Coimisinéir Teanga had advised that there is no statutory obligation on the Authority to provide the online renewal service in Irish. The Authority is obliged to put in place a system which allows it deal with the public who apply in Irish. The Authority provides an application form in Irish to facilitate the public in this regard.
I understand that the Authority has provided the individual in question with an Irish version of the application form. If the person wishes to provide a security service they should complete the form and return it to the Authority who will process the application.
The Authority will be providing some services in Irish as part of the development of its new website which it hopes to launch later this year.
