Tuesday, 17 Apr 2018

Written Answers Nos. 70-106

Gender Equality

Ceisteanna (71)

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

71. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the introduction of legislation to narrow the gender pay gap similar to that introduced in the UK whereby large companies are obliged to publish information on the gender pay gap in their company; if he has consulted with other Ministers on the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (Gender Pay Gap Information) Bill 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16177/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality

I fully support legislation along the lines described. Action 1.23 of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 is to promote wage transparency by requiring companies of 50 or more employees to complete a wage survey periodically and report the results. This reflects a commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government. Minister Flanagan and I held a public consultation last Autumn on measures to address the gender pay gap and Ministers Flanagan and Humphreys organised a successful symposium in January on the subject.

A Gender Pay Gap (Wage Transparency) Bill for publication in the Spring/Summer 2018 is included in the Government Legislation Programme. A General Scheme of that Bill is currently in preparation. Ministers have been briefed on the policy intentions regarding the General Scheme which will be circulated to Ministers for consideration shortly.

Garda Data

Ceisteanna (72, 85)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

72. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí attached to core Garda units in the Cork city Garda division compared with 2010; and his views on same. [16544/18]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

85. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí allocated to core Garda units now compared with 2010; and his views on whether consideration should be given to reviewing the 2021 Garda strength targets. [16542/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 and 85 together.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.

I am informed by the Commissioner that the strength of the Cork City Division on 28 February 2018, the latest date for which information is currently available, was 667. There are also 42 Garda Reserves and 69 Garda civilian staff attached to the Cork City Division. When appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Armed Support Units, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.

This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. To achieve this the Government has put in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. This is an ambitious plan which requires significant investment in terms of recruitment, equipment, and accommodation while at the same time ensuring that the standard of training and supervision of the new entrants to An Garda Síochána over the course of the plan is not compromised. We are making real, tangible progress on achieving this goal and it is not intended at this stage to review the plan.

The closure of the Garda College by the Government of the day in 2010 and the moratorium imposed at that time had a negative impact on Garda numbers across all Divisions and we continue to be negatively impacted by the legacy of the recession. Since when my Party took office in 2011 following the severe economic crash, we, along with our partners in Government, set about existing the bailout, stabilising the economy and returning to growth and job creation. We reopened the Garda College in September 2014 and since then just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. Garda numbers, taking account of retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 – a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.

This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Division, including the Cork City Division.

I am pleased that funding is in place to maintain this high level of investment in the Garda workforce to ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. This year a further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College. Also 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest this year - 200 of whom attested last month- which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, reach 14,000 by the end of 2018.

In addition, provision has been made by the Government for the recruitment of a further 500 civilians to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training in 2018.

The material requested by the Deputy is not available in the manner requested. By way of assistance I attach a spread sheet containing the number of Gardaí by Division in 2010 and on 28 February 2018, the latest date for which figures are currently available, as supplied by the Commissioner.

Garda Numbers by Division 2010 and 2018

DIVISION	2010	2018*
D.M.R. EAST	473	372
D.M.R. NORTH	803	666
D.M.R. NORTH CENTRAL	693	613
D.M.R. SOUTH	632	521
D.M.R. SOUTH CENTRAL	771	611
D.M.R. WEST	788	665
KILDARE	323	357
LAOIS / OFFALY	320	340
MEATH	313	308
WESTMEATH	262	271
WICKLOW	355	306
CAVAN / MONAGHAN	391	329
DONEGAL	466	387
LOUTH	314	311
SLIGO / LEITRIM	320	305
KILKENNY/CARLOW	317	327
TIPPERARY	383	390
WATERFORD	302	300
WEXFORD	281	291
CORK CITY	698	667
CORK NORTH	309	326
CORK WEST	318	298
KERRY	334	320
LIMERICK	643	559
CLARE	320	309
GALWAY	601	575
MAYO	311	328
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD	301	314

Immigration Status

Ceisteanna (73)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

73. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if correspondence in relation to persons (details supplied) will be responded to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16368/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the records show that the most recent correspondence from the persons referred to by the Deputy were received on 22 December 2017 and 17 December 2017 respectively. Both were acknowledged on 4 January 2018 and the contents of the correspondence is being taken into account in the consideration of the applications. Processing of both applications is still under consideration and have not yet reached a conclusion. The applications will be submitted to me as expeditiously as possible.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. While most straightforward cases are now processed within six months, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process.  In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Closed-Circuit Television Systems

Ceisteanna (74)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

74. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the roll out of his Department's community CCTV schemes; and his plans to ensure schemes can proceed. [16540/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy is aware, my Department has launched a Community-based CCTV grant-aid scheme to assist groups in the establishment of community-based CCTV systems in their local areas.

There has been an increasing level of enquiries relating to the scheme. Some 11 applications have been received to date and I understand that a number of other applications are currently being readied for submission.

4 applications under the scheme have been approved to date, with approved funding totalling almost €120,000. A further 4 applications are under active consideration. The remaining 3 applications received to date have been returned to the applicants concerned, to enable them to provide the information necessary to qualify for grant-aid.

Of the 4 approved applications for funding, 3 separate schemes are to be established in County Wexford and 1 in County Wicklow.

Under the scheme, eligible community groups can apply for grant-aid of up to 60% of the total capital cost of a proposed CCTV system, up to a maximum grant of €40,000.

Full details of the grant aid package including guidelines, application forms, code of practice and other relevant documentation are all available to download from my Department's website - www.justice.ie.

I am very conscious of the value that communities, especially rural communities, place on CCTV as a means of deterring crime and assisting in the detection of offenders and I would encourage interested groups to avail of the scheme. 

Immigration Status

Ceisteanna (75)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

75. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of an application by a person (details supplied) for naturalisation; the reason for the delay in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16369/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the processing of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy, is still under consideration and has not yet reached a conclusion. The application will be submitted to me as expeditiously as possible.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process. 

It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. While most straightforward cases are now processed within six months, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process.  In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time. 

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited. 

Question No. 76 answered with Question No. 65.

Independent Review Mechanism

Ceisteanna (77)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

77. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress of the statutory inquiries initiated as a result of the independent review mechanism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16539/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy is referring to five Statutory Inquiries which were established, under Section 42 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, on 15 May 2017.  These inquiries, each of which is presided over by a retired judge, arose out of the recommendations of Counsel of the Independent Review Mechanism in respect of five complaints considered by it.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Orders establishing these Inquiries prescribe that a report will be made to me at the conclusion of each Inquiry.  

As was outlined to the Deputy in response to Question 148 of 15 February 2018, at the time of establishment of these Inquiries, a timeframe of six months was set out for the submission of final reports.  In interim reports provided to me by the judges, it was made clear that completion within that six month timeframe has not been possible due to a number of factors.  I therefore granted extensions as appropriate for each Inquiry.

Upon receipt of each final report, I will review the contents and consider whether any further action is warranted or how I should proceed in relation to them.

At the present time, work is continuing on all five Inquiries. I expect to receive reports in respect of three of the inquiries by the end of April.  With regard to the remaining two inquiries, these have been given until the end of June to report.

As the Deputy will appreciate, certain aspects of these cases have proven very complex and I am anxious that the inquiries themselves are thorough and complete. 

Garda Recruitment

Ceisteanna (78)

John Lahart

Ceist:

78. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps An Garda Síochána has taken at senior level to encourage a multi-cultural force reflecting the different cultural strands in society; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15158/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy will be aware, recruitment to An Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and is governed by the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 2013, and I, as Minister, have no direct involvement in the matter.

The Commissioner has assured me that a concerted effort is being made to encourage women and minority communities to consider a career in An Garda Síochána so that the membership of An Garda Síochána will reflect the community that it serves. Recent recruitment campaigns made a significant effort through on line videos and other media to attract candidates from minority communities and diverse  social groups.

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the total number of women in all ranks of An Garda Síochána as of the 28 February 2018, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 3,584 or 26.5% of the total strength. This compares favourably with the number on 31 December 2008 which was 3,130 or 22% of the total strength and is broadly in line with other police services in England and Wales.

I am assured that Commissioner recognises the importance of recruiting into An Garda Síochána from a wide cross section of the population so that the organisation provides a Policing Service that reflects the growing diversity of Irish Society. The Commissioner’s  Policing Plan 2018 commits to the development of a positive action plan to attract and recruit applicants from minority and diverse groups and to review barriers or disincentives to entry to An Garda Síochána and to examine ways in which applications from diverse minority communities for entry into An Garda Síochána can be increased.

The Deputy may also be aware that the Commission on the Future of Policing - established by the Government - as part of its Terms of Reference are examining the composition, recruitment and training of personnel to ensure that the personnel in the organisation reflect the diversity of Irish society. The Commission is due to report in September 2018.

Questions Nos. 79 and 80 answered with Question No. 65.

Data Protection

Ceisteanna (81)

Gino Kenny

Ceist:

81. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether it is insufficient to rely on digital consent as a means to protect children’s data in view of the fact it places an excessive burden on parents to be active in the digital world; his further views on whether restrictions should be imposed on the data controllers forbidding them to use children’s data for marketing or commercial purposes; his plans to ensure that data controllers take responsibility in data breaches or undue commercial targeting of children’s data while using their platform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9023/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The position is that while the data protection rights and protections that generally apply to adults under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) also apply to children, the GDPR acknowledges that the personal data of children merit specific protection and it includes a number of specific measures for the protection of children in addition to the "digital age of consent". 

For example, Article 6.1(f), which generally permits processing of personal data where necessary for the purposes of the “legitimate interests” of a controller that is not a public authority, may not be relied upon where such interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of a data subject, in particular where the data subject is a child.  Recital 38 states that specific protections "should, in particular, apply to the use of personal data of children for the purposes of marketing or creating personality or user profiles and the collection of personal data with regard to children when using services".

In addition, Article 12, which obliges controllers to provide information to data subjects on the processing of their personal data in a "concise, transparent, intelligible and easily accessible form", states that its provisions shall apply "in particular for any information addressed specifically to a child."

Recital 65 states that the right to erasure (set out Article 17) is relevant "in particular where the data subject has given his or her consent as a child and is not fully aware of the risks involved by the processing, and later wants to remove such personal data, especially on the internet.

Article 57, which requires data protection authorities to promote public awareness and understanding of the risks, rules, safeguards and rights in relation to data processing, states that activities addressed specifically to children must receive specific attention. 

Arising from recent discussions in the Seanad on the protection of children in the context of the Data Protection Bill 2018, I brought forward two new sections for inclusion in the Bill, namely sections 31 and 32. Section 31 makes provision for the drawing up and implementation of codes of conduct intended to contribute to the proper application of the GDPR with regard to the protection of children, as permitted under Article 40 of the GDPR. Subsection (2) provides for consultations with relevant stakeholders, including children and bodies representing their interests, during that process. Section 32 goes on to make specific provision for an enhanced “right to be forgotten” in the case of children in accordance with Article 17 of the GDPR.  

I am engaged with my colleagues, Ministers Naughten, Zappone and Bruton to bring forward proposals to enhance protections for children online. 

Immigration Policy

Ceisteanna (82)

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

82. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a person (details supplied) will be permitted to enter the State if travelling with their Irish spouse and child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16531/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the person concerned is required to present on arrival to an immigration officer for permission to enter the State. In terms of travel document requirements, the person should be in possession of a valid passport or other equivalent document, issued by or on behalf of an authority recognised by the Government, which establishes his or her identity and nationality to the satisfaction of an immigration officer. On the basis of the information provided by the deputy, it appears that the authorities concerned are willing to provide such a document.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Direct Provision System

Ceisteanna (83)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

83. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps being taken to ensure that residents of direct provision centres are being advised of their right to vote in local elections in 2019; the way in which contact with candidates will be facilitated in order that residents can engage fully with the democratic process. [16543/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality

My Department, through the Reception & Integration Agency (RIA), has always facilitated and encouraged the registration of and voting by protection applicants in local elections.

The general policy in relation to local elections has been to allow candidates to drop off election leaflets which could be placed in a common area in the centre where they could be picked up by residents. Candidates can provide, on the leaflets, contact details or times of political meetings outside the centre that residents can attend.

Given the particular nature of the accommodation provided in centres, there are a number of factors that would deter unrestricted access by candidates to the living quarters of residents. These include, the communal nature of the accommodation system; the desirability that they operate in a politically neutral environment; the many practical and logistical difficulties that would arise for centre managers in providing unsupervised access in circumstances where families and children live together.

This general policy ensures that there are no restrictions placed on residents’ voting rights, or on their rights to access whatever information candidates wish to convey to them, or on any rights to meet with candidates, albeit outside centres.  It also ensures privacy in the residential units and the on-going protection of children in the centre.

There is however an opportunity for the newly established Friends of the Centre group at each centre to disseminate information to residents on how to register to vote and on the importance of local government within the political structure of the State as well as the responsibility of exercising a franchise where it has been recognised.  The Friends of the Centre groups have the added benefit of sharing information and raising awareness about voting, in a informal way.   Closer to the election date, the Friends of the Centre groups will be encouraged to communicate with residents on this important issue.

Magdalen Laundries Report

Ceisteanna (84)

Jim O'Callaghan

Ceist:

84. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the measures being taken on foot of the recommendations of the State Ombudsman’s report on the Magdalen restorative justice scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16487/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

Last week the Taoiseach and I, together with our officials, met the Ombudsman to discuss my proposals to implement the recommendations in his report.  The meeting was positive and constructive, and today I briefed my Cabinet colleagues on these recommendations and the steps I am taking to implement them as quickly as possible.  This will involve a review of cases where there has been a dispute over length of stay, and assistance to applicants who lack capacity.  It will also include a focused and time-limited assessment of the modalities involved in applying the scheme to residents of adjoining institutions, and of any related issues.  I will then return to Government with final proposals on implementation.

 I look forward to working with the Ombudsman on the implementation of his recommendations, and I will be very happy to keep the House updated on progress on these issues.

By way of further information, a total of €25.9m in lump sums has been paid to 691 applicants under the Magdalen Laundries Restorative Justice Scheme.  In addition, qualifying applicants receive additional benefits under the scheme. These include an enhanced medical card from the HSE and ‘top up’ pension payments from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

Question No. 85 answered with Question No. 72.

Garda Reports

Ceisteanna (86)

Gerry Adams

Ceist:

86. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the report of An Garda Síochána into the fatal shooting of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16532/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

Garda Tony Golden lost his life in October 2015 serving his community. His death on that day has robbed the Golden family of a dearly loved husband, father, brother and son. A young woman suffered serious injuries as a result of the events of that day and she has also endured a great deal.

It is important, of course, that we are sensitive to those who suffered so greatly as a result of the dreadful events in Omeath.

As the Deputy is aware, in late 2017 I received a report from the Garda Commissioner in relation to the review by the Garda authorities of the events surrounding the fatal shooting of Garda Golden.

Conscious of the gravity of the matter and concerns expressed publicly by local public representatives, I decided in the public interest to publish the Garda report by laying it before the Houses. Following consultation with the Attorney General and the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, the report was subject to a number of minor but necessary redactions for legal, data protection and security reasons.

I would emphasise that the key and clear finding of the review was that the actions of Garda Tony Golden were beyond reproach.  He was an exemplary member of An Garda Síochána.

While the report highlights, inter alia, that two incidents of domestic violence were not recorded in accordance with relevant policy and procedures, the report indicates it does not appear that the classification of the incidents was a causative factor in these tragic events in the night of the shootings.

The House should note that certain allegations in respect of the tragic events at Omeath are the subject of two investigations by GSOC and that these investigations are ongoing.  GSOC, as the Deputy will appreciate, carries out its work independently and it is essential that that it should be allowed to do so without hindrance.

Since these dreadful events, I am informed that An Garda Siochana have taken necessary actions in a number of areas, especially in supporting vulnerable victims of crime, particularly where incidents of criminality occur in a domestic setting. I note also that the Policing Authority continues to monitor the work of An Garda Síochána in relation to crime classification.

Road Traffic Offences

Ceisteanna (87)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

87. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedure for An Garda Síochána to validate the type of licence held by a driver involved in a fatal or serious collision in view of the fact that PULSE does not differentiate between full driver licences and learner permits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15281/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I am advised by An Garda Síochána that the recording of all Road Traffic Collisions on PULSE requires the members to complete licence and insurance details for each driver. In relation to the licence details, PULSE provides for the recording of various licence types including Full; Learner (Accompanied); Learner (Unaccompanied) and Novice. Furthermore, the Driver Licence and Insurance Production (DLIP) facility also provides for the recording of the licence type presented. Both these methods are dependent on a visual inspection of the documents and the recording of same on PULSE.

I am also advised by the Garda authorities that a pilot of PULSE access via mobile devices by 50 Garda members in the Limerick Division is currently underway which provides a facility for secure online lookup of driving license records from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to confirm if the license is current or disqualified. This pilot is planned to be reviewed for consideration for further rollout.

An Garda Síochána’s Modernisation and Renewal Programme (2016-2021) sets out key strategic objectives for Road Policing which will inform and guide An Garda Síochána's Road Policing plans over the lifetime of the Programme. Under the Programme, the Commissioner will undertake a number of road safety traffic enforcement initiatives, including expanding the use of technology and increasing checkpoints. 

I am committed to continuing the ongoing accelerated Garda recruitment programme and continued investment in fleet and Garda ICT infrastructure with a view to supporting the critical road traffic enforcement function performed by An Garda Síochána.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Ceisteanna (88)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

88. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of measures being taken to curb the recent upsurge of joyriding and associated serious anti-social behaviour in some areas of north Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15282/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I would like to assure the Deputy that I share his concern in relation to joyriding and anti-social behaviour. We all want to feel safe in our communities. We want our families, friends and neighbours to feel safe. Our community is an extension of our home.

Joyriding and anti-social behaviour fly in the face of what we expect when we are at home in our community. The result of such behaviour can be tragic: the participants in such dangerous, anti-social activities can become injured, sometimes seriously, and sometimes fatally. Innocent passers-by, including other road users and pedestrians can meet a similar fate. Families, friends and neighbours – communities – are left to pick up the pieces afterwards.

The Deputy will appreciate that I have no direct role in the prevention of anti-social behaviour or the enforcement of road traffic legislation, which are operational matters for the Garda Commissioner.

I am informed, however, that An Garda Síochána conducts operations on an ongoing basis to target the anti-social activities of young drivers. In order to combat this behaviour, intelligence is gathered at local level and areas are targeted as appropriate. An Garda Síochána also works closely with local authorities with a view to reducing such incidents and opportunities for joyriding, anti-social behaviour and public disorder.

As a result of the dangerous and anti-social driving behaviour experienced in a number of areas within the Deputy’s constituency, An Garda Síochána has introduced a robust policy of public order patrols at weekends over recent weeks with a view to:

- Ensuring a visible Garda presence in the communities concerned;

- Ensuring the safety of Garda members attending to calls;

- Identifying and targeting offenders;

- Preventing anti-social behaviour.

Ongoing liaison has been maintained with Dublin City Council and local Garda management are continuously engaging directly with the communities affected and with public representatives. As a result of this collaborative approach, An Garda Síochána has reported a clear improvement in the levels of anti-social behaviour in recent weeks in the communities concerned. I commend this approach and all involved.

The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government underlines the need for close engagement between An Garda Síochána and local communities as part of the strong community policing ethos which has long been central to policing in this jurisdiction. The active engagement evidenced here has proved fruitful. Now it is vital that this engagement continues.

Question No. 89 answered with Question No. 65.

Garda Youth Diversion Projects

Ceisteanna (90)

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

90. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the number of cases referred to the Garda youth diversion programme in each year since 2010 is accurate; his further views regarding the review into the programme that is being carried out; and when the report will be published. [16445/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality

The Garda Youth Diversion Programme is an essential part of Government strategy to help tackle youth crime, and it is very important that it operates effectively.

As the Deputy is aware, a number of issues which impact on the effective administration of the Diversion Programme were identified following the completion, in June 2017, of an examination by the Garda Professional Services Unit (GPSU), and the Garda authorities subsequently initiated a comprehensive review process and a dedicated Review Team has been tasked with coordinating this work. 

I have received updates on the progress of this review and I am advised by the Garda authorities that records dating from 2010 to 2017 are under examination. I understand that in the seven year period being examined there were in excess of 160,000 diversion referrals recorded. While only a proportion of these require examination in light of the concerns raised by the GPSU, the review involves the manual examination of several thousand records spread across all of the 28 Garda Divisions. I am informed that the Garda authorities have established a review team in each Division to assist in this process.

Clearly, it is important that the Garda review is completed in a thorough and comprehensive manner. I share the Deputy’s concern that the issues in question are properly addressed and I have written to the Policing Authority, in the context of their oversight role of An Garda Síochána, to share my concerns. I understand that the Policing Authority are engaging with Garda management in relation to the on-going review process.

I have asked the Commissioner to ensure that I am fully updated on the outcome of the review process and stressed that every effort should be made to complete this work as soon as possible.

Departmental Funding

Ceisteanna (91)

Paul Murphy

Ceist:

91. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the work of the integration centres in Tallaght and Clondalkin; the reason his Department has withdrawn funding for the centres, which has resulted in their closure; the measures he will take to ensure that these services are reinstated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16529/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality

The Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration (OPMI), an Office of my Department, allocates public funding for migrant integration projects on the basis of competitive selection processes carried out in a fair, open and transparent way.  This gives a wide range of community and voluntary organisations the opportunity to bid for government funding for projects to support the integration of migrants in our communities.

South Dublin County Partnership received funding from OPMI via South Dublin County Council between 2008 and 2016 under a National Integration Funding Programme that concluded in 2016. In 2017, a new 3 year National Integration Funding Programme was initiated. Grant allocation under this programme was by way of open competitive calls for proposals. All organisations wishing to be considered for funding – including those who had received funding under the previous programme - were required to make new applications.  All eligible applications received were assessed by OPMI staff against the published selection criteria. The funding recommendations were reviewed by an assessment committee that included external representatives. In all, 15 projects were selected to receive funding from a total of 73 eligible applications.

An application was received from South Dublin County Partnership which included a request for funding to contribute to the cost of running the centre referred to by the Deputy.  Regrettably, this application was unsuccessful in what was a highly competitive process.

My officials advise that at a subsequent meeting held with the Office for Promotion of Migrant Integration in November last year, representatives from South Dublin County Partnership outlined their concerns for the future of the centre in Clondalkin.  Officials of my Department proposed a number of alternative options to secure funding.  They invited the representatives of South Dublin County Partnership to consider these options further and to submit proposals.  However, no such proposals have been forthcoming to date.  These options remain open to the organisation.

The National Funding to Promote the Integration of Immigrants is one of a number of funding programmes, administered by or on behalf of my Department to support migrant integration. We also provide funding from the Asylum Migration and Integration Fund and the Communities Integration Fund. South County Dublin Partnership is in receipt of integration project funding under both these funds. In 2017 the Partnership was awarded a grant of €150,000 over three years under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund.

The Migrant Integration Strategy, which was published in February 2017, contains a number of very specific actions under the theme of promoting intercultural awareness and combating racism and xenophobia.  These actions, which are being implemented, include ensuring appropriate migrant representation on local joint-policing committees, implementing victim-focused policing of racist crime, rapid removal of racist graffiti and the strengthening of legislation dealing with hate crime.

The Migrant Integration Strategy also makes provision for the continuation of funding through OPMI for integration related projects at community level up to and including 2020.  Future "Calls for Proposals" under all integration funding programmes will be advertised on my Department's website, the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration and the EU Funds Unit of the Department.  South Dublin County Partnership is entitled to apply as appropriate.

Garda Reserve

Ceisteanna (92)

Peter Fitzpatrick

Ceist:

92. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve to deliver on the commitment to visible and responsive policing in communities throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16484/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the recruitment and training of the Garda Reserve and the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter.

I am advised by the Commissioner that the strength of the Reserve on the 28 February 2018 was 569. It is regrettable that there has been a substantial reduction in the strength of the Reserve in recent years from a peak of 1,164 in 2013. The fall-off arises from a range of factors, not least the lifting in 2014 of the moratorium on recruitment of trainee Gardaí which has affected Reserve numbers in two ways:

- firstly, some serving Reserves have successfully applied to become trainee Gardaí, and

- secondly, resources in both An Garda Síochána and in the Public Appointments Service (PAS) have been focused on delivering an accelerated programme of recruitment of full time members of An Garda Síochána.

I am sure that the Deputy will agree, notwithstanding the very valuable contribution of Reserve members throughout the country, that it was the right decision, with finite resources, to prioritise the running of recruitment campaigns to replenish the full-time ranks of An Garda Síochána over the last three years.

The "Programme for a Partnership Government" includes a commitment to double the Garda Reserve to act in a supportive role undertaking local patrols and crime reduction measures. In line with this, the Government has in place a plan to achieve a Reserve strength of 2,000 by 2021.

With the plan to reach 15,000 Garda members well on track, it was possible for the Commissioner and the PAS to undertake a new recruitment campaign for Garda Reserves last March. That competition attracted 2,394 applicants of whom 498 successfully completed the initial stages carried out by PAS. These applications are currently being processed by the Garda Appointments Office. The time frame for this can vary due to a number factors, including the length of the vetting process which may, for example, be more time consuming if the applicant has resided abroad or is deferred for medical reasons. It is expected that the first of the successful candidates will commence training in the Garda College in the coming months.

In conjunction with the major expansion of the Reserve over the next number of years, we must ensure that it is used to optimum effect to support effective policing. To inform future decisions around the use of the Reserve, An Garda Síochána is conducting a strategic review as a matter of priority with a view to completion in the first half of the year as set out in the Policing Plan 2018.

As a first step, the Garda Executive has taken a decision to transfer the management of the Reserve to the Assistant Commissioner with responsibility for Community Engagement. This is intended to ensure that its development and deployment is viewed more broadly through a community policing lens. This is a very welcome step as it is my strong view that the greatest dividend to be gained from the Reserve is in terms of a visible presence on the ground and engaging with local communities.

Legislative Measures

Ceisteanna (93)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

93. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if further legislative measures are required to facilitate An Garda Síochána in combatting crime and in particular organised crime; his views on whether the committal of further crime while on bail still continues to be a major issue; his further views on whether readily available criminal free legal aid is justifiable in respect of perpetrators who have re-offended while on bail previously; his views on whether detention instead of bail should become the first option in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16500/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will appreciate that a comprehensive body of legislation exists to provide for the prosecution for offences relating to organised crime. I believe that An Garda Síochána, with the support of the significant additional resources provided to it by this Government, will prevail in facing down the threat of gangland violence in our communities. An Garda Síochána have faced down this type of threat in the past and will do so again. As such, I do not believe that additional emergency legislation is required at this time.

I can inform the Deputy that a number of legislative measures have been introduced to tackle gang-related and associated crime. For example, the recent Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Act 2016 provides additional powers for Gardaí; in particular, powers to allow for the immediate seizure of assets suspected of being the proceeds of crime to prevent them being disposed of has been introduced and I am pleased that the provisions of this Act are available to An Garda Síochána today.

I can assure the Deputy that officials from my Department and An Garda Síochána keep all criminal legislation under continuous review to see whether there might be a requirement to change the law to further disrupt the operation of criminal groups who carry out these crimes and who endanger the safety of our communities.

Addressing the issue of offences committed by persons while on bail is a priority for this Government.  The Criminal Justice Act 2017, enacted on 28 June, 2017 made a number of changes to the bail laws. These changes have made the bail system far stronger and have made the law as effective as possible in protecting the public against crimes committed by persons on bail. The court has the power to refuse bail where there are reasonable grounds to believe the person is likely to commit a serious offence. In assessing this likelihood, the court must take into account the nature and seriousness of the offence, the accused person’s previous offending and may also take into account the danger he or she poses to the public if bail is granted. The Criminal Justice Act 2017 also strengthened Garda powers to deal with breaches of bail providing a power of arrest without warrant, and made provisions to increase the use of curfews and to facilitate the introduction of electronic tagging for those on bail in certain circumstances.

As the Deputy will be aware, a decision to grant bail in a particular case is a matter for the court, which is, subject to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of its judicial functions. There is a constitutional presumption in favour of bail because, in the eyes of the law, a person is innocent until proven guilty.  It would not be constitutionally permissible to refuse bail for a specific category of cases.

In relation to the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme, the Deputy will be aware that it is a vital element of the criminal justice system. The Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962 provides that free legal aid may be granted in certain circumstances for the defence of persons of insufficient means in criminal proceedings. 

Under the Act, the courts, through the judiciary, are responsible for the granting of legal aid. An applicant's previous convictions are not a criterion for access to legal aid under the Act, however the overriding concern is to ensure that no risk arises in relation to the prosecution of persons charged with criminal offences before the courts.

My Department is preparing a draft General Scheme of a Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Bill, the key purpose of which is to transfer the administration of the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme to the Legal Aid Board and to give effect to Government Programme commitments in respect of criminal legal aid, including introducing a more rigorous and objective means testing system for criminal legal aid, provision for contributions, and new sanctions.  

Restorative Justice

Ceisteanna (94)

Brian Stanley

Ceist:

94. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has considered putting in place restorative justice schemes for offenders. [15335/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Probation Service plays a key role in the delivery of restorative justice as part of its overall mission of reducing reoffending and further victimisation in our communities.  Referrals for restorative justice interventions are provided post-conviction, within the parameters of assessment and court orders, including community and prison based actions.

The Probation Service, through my Department, allocates funding to a range of Community Based Organisations (CBOs) to support its work and mission.  In particular, two CBOs receive funding to deliver restorative justice programmes and interventions for adult offenders. The first of these is “Restorative Justice Services”, based in Tallaght, which has been allocated funding by the Probation Service of €369,000 in 2018.  The second is “Restorative Justice in the Community”, based in Nenagh, in respect of which funding of €162,000 has been provided in 2018.  Both organisations provide two models of restorative justice – the offender reparation panel and victim offender mediation services.

In addition, bespoke restorative justice interventions are also available from Probation Officers on a national basis, in particular where a Court has requested an assessment for restorative justice engagement. The Probation Service staff receive accredited training on restorative justice practice.  These interventions are bespoke in the sense that they may include direct victim offender mediation, shuttle mediation, acts of community reparation or victim awareness work with the offenders.

The Probation Service Restorative Justice Strategy published in November 2013 provides a framework for informed, effective and integrated restorative justice practice. The 2014  Implementation Plan for this Strategy sets out the goals and related actions for four distinct restorative justice models, which complement and support court ordered sanctions. These models include Victim Offender Mediation, Family Group Conferencing, Reparation panels and Support Circles.

Extending the use of restorative justice programmes is also a recommendation of the Penal Policy Review Group, whose report was submitted to Government by the then Minister for Justice & Equality in November 2014. An Implementation Group is currently overseeing the implementation of these recommendations. Its fifth report (February 2018), is available on my Department’s website.

In this context, it should be noted that Section 26 of the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Act 2017 transposes the restorative justice provisions contained in the 2012 European Directive on establishing minimum standards on the rights, support and protection of victims of crime. It outlines very clearly the measures to be taken to ensure that victims who choose to participate in a restorative justice scheme have access to safe and competent services.  In order to give effect to this, the Probation Service’s Victim Service Team will take a lead role in further developing capacity to respond to requests for restorative justice interventions. The service will continue to -

- provide an effective response to requests for restorative justice from the courts and direct requests from victims where the perpetrator is a current service user;

- ensure that the appropriate training and support structures are in place to provide safe, accountable and evidence informed practice as required by the legislation;

- work in collaboration with criminal justice partners and victim support organisations.

Court Accommodation Provision

Ceisteanna (95)

Michael Healy-Rae

Ceist:

95. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if surveys are being carried out on a site (details supplied) with a view to the construction of a new courthouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10740/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

As the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts, including the provision of accommodation for court sittings, is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions.

However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that it is aware of the deficiencies in the court accommodation in Tralee Courthouse and that, as part of its provincial capital building programme, one of the objectives is to provide improved court accommodation in Tralee.

The Courts Service has advised that it envisages a courthouse comprising four courtrooms and related facilities as being required to meet current and future needs in Tralee and that this will require a building significantly larger than the existing courthouse on Ashe Street. In terms of providing upgraded court accommodation the refurbishment, extension and development of existing courthouses has always been the Courts Service's preference. However, while this is an option for Tralee, the scope for refurbishing and developing the existing courthouse on Ashe Street to provide the envisaged accommodation is extremely limited due to the nature of the building and the constraints of the site.

The Courts Service has also advised that it is currently considering a number of options for Tralee Courthouse, including the level of extension and refurbishment achievable within the confines of the existing courthouse site; whether it would be feasible to acquire an adjacent town centre site and the degree of extension and refurbishment this would allow. Previous efforts to acquire adjacent sites on Ashe Street have not been successful as the sites could not be acquired at a price that represented value for money. A further option is to build a new modern courthouse on a greenfield/brownfield site. 

The Courts Service has also informed me that as part of the consideration of these options it had a site at the former Ballymullen Barracks, which is owned by the Department of Defence, assessed by the OPW to determine the site's suitability as a location for a new courthouse. A valuation of this site was also undertaken by the Valuation Office at the request of the Courts Service. However, the Courts Service has advised that a decision has not yet been made and that all options are being kept under review.

Tralee is one of a number of provincial city/county town venues nationwide still requiring new or upgraded courthouse accommodation and collectively these venues will be the next priority for investment in courthouse facilities outside the capital.  

Crime Investigation

Ceisteanna (96)

Bernard Durkan

Ceist:

96. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether further resources or initiatives are required to deal with the issue of criminal gangs, such as proscribing membership of such gangs leading to their detention and prosecution, notwithstanding the considerable success of An Garda Síochána in this regard; if an audit has been done on the strength and membership of such gangs; his views on whether their activities are adequately monitored nationally and internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16501/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I can assure the Deputy that tackling organised crime activity is a key ongoing priority for both the Government and An Garda Síochána.

An Garda Síochána's Policing Plan sets out the priorities of An Garda Síochána in tackling organised crime activity together with its continued commitment to pro-actively target groups and individuals engaged in criminal activity, including organised criminal activities. 

 The challenges presented by gangland crime over the past two years have necessitated investment in the specialist units to enhance their capacity to support the fight against this type of crime. Accordingly, I am advised by the Commissioner that almost 125 extra Gardaí were assigned to the specialist units within Special Crime Operations in 2017 and to date in 2018.  In addition, a dedicated Armed Support Unit for the DMR was established at the end of 2016 in order to enhance armed support capability in Dublin and to free up the resources of the Emergency Response Unit.

The capacity of Garda management to allocate additional resources to specialist units is a result of the significant investment in personnel to which the Government is committed under its Five Year Reform and High Level Workforce Plan for An Garda Síochána.

Also, in tackling such activity, An Garda Síochána continues to develop and implement operations and strategies aimed at targeting, dismantling and disrupting criminal networks, utilising advanced analytical and intelligence methodologies. Multi-disciplinary approaches are also employed to ensure the activities of individuals and groups involved in criminal enterprise are effectively targeted, including through the use of the Proceeds of Crime legislation, money-laundering legislation, the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009 relating to organised crime and the powers of the Criminal Assets Bureau.

While we should not underestimate the difficulties which the Garda authorities face in tackling organised crime activity, we continue to see the significant results of their efforts in the arrests made and persons being brought before the Courts, as well as the ongoing drugs and firearms seizures made. 

Given the fluid nature of such criminal groupings it is extremely difficult to quantify the number of criminal gangs operating at a particular time. Splinter groups and new gangs can form overnight. Organised Crime is constantly evolving and new innovations in crime are continuously emerging.

From time to time the question has arisen of providing for an offence of membership of a criminal gang in a manner similar to the approach taken in the Offences Against the State Acts with regard to membership of a proscribed organisation.

In this regard, it is important to understand the issues which arise in seeking to simply outlaw membership of a criminal gang in such a manner. Most significant is the fact that a criminal gang is not likely to have a similar permanency of organisation and structure that might pertain to a typical subversive organisation or other more fixed group.  Similarly, relationships in criminal gangs tend to be more fluid with shifting memberships and alliances and a given individual's affiliation with a criminal network might itself be entirely contingent, contextual and ephemeral.

However, criminal legislation has been updated in recent years, with a view to ensuring that it provides a comprehensive range of provisions for the prosecution and punishment of crime, in particular the activities of those involved in organised crime.  

Closed-Circuit Television Systems Provision

Ceisteanna (97)

John Curran

Ceist:

97. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider renewing and extending Garda based CCTV systems in view of the poor uptake in grant applications to date for community based CCTV systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16228/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will be aware that CCTV systems installed for the purposes of crime prevention and as aids to policing in areas to which the general public routinely have access, such as town centres, fall into two distinct but complementary categories, namely Garda CCTV systems and community-based CCTV systems. Neither type of CCTV system may be established without authorisation by the Garda Commissioner under section 38 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, among other requirements.

Garda CCTV systems are planned and implemented on the basis of An Garda Síochána's identified operational needs and priorities. Accordingly, decisions in relation to the introduction or extension of such systems are a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I, as Minister, have no role in that regard.

Regarding community-based CCTV schemes, it should be noted that in late 2015, An Garda Síochána reviewed the effectiveness of CCTV systems in the context of the consideration then being given to the introduction of a new round of funding for community CCTV systems.

An Garda Síochána indicated that it utilises CCTV in almost every criminal investigation, during major public events and sporting occasions, in the investigation of road traffic incidents and in many other areas requiring police action; and that CCTV is particularly effective when the cameras are visible and awareness about their presence is such as to raise consciousness amongst would be offenders. As such, I understand that An Garda Síochána is supportive of community CCTV systems.

Under the grant-aid scheme launched by my Department last year to assist groups in the establishment of community-based CCTV systems in their local areas, eligible groups can apply for grant-aid of up to 60% of the total capital cost of a proposed CCTV system, up to a maximum grant of €40,000.

To date 4 applications under the scheme have been approved, with approved funding totalling almost €120,000. This is a not inconsiderable sum for the parties concerned. A further 4 applications are under active consideration and another 3 applications have been returned to the applicants concerned, to enable them to provide the information necessary to qualify for grant-aid.

I am very anxious to ensure that all interested groups, in both rural and urban areas, take advantage of the availability of this grant aid scheme. Full details of the grant aid package including guidelines, application forms, code of practice and other relevant documentation are all available to download from my Department's website - www.justice.ie

Support and guidance is available to help interested groups to apply for this funding through a dedicated email address available for this purpose - [e-mail]

Garda Operations

Ceisteanna (98)

John Curran

Ceist:

98. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the meeting which had been scheduled for 28 February 2018 of interested bodies and parties to discuss the issue of problem quad and scrambler use and which was cancelled due to bad weather conditions has been rescheduled and taken place; if so, the next steps and timelines to address this ongoing issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16229/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 319 of 20 March 2018, which details the up to date position in relation to the rescheduled meeting to discuss the serious public safety issues associated with the misuse of scramblers and quad bikes. This meeting is now scheduled for 25 April 2018. The Deputy will be aware that my concerns in relation to this matter are already on the public record of this House. I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to promote cross-agency engagement in relation to this important public safety issue.

Garda Stations

Ceisteanna (99)

Aindrias Moynihan

Ceist:

99. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the new Garda station in Macroom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16485/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter.

The Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021, which is an ambitious 5-year Programme based on agreed Garda priorities, continues to benefit over thirty locations around the country. The Programme includes over €60 million of Exchequer funding as well as a major Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to deliver stations at Macroom, Sligo and Clonmel.

I understand that the OPW has acquired a site for the planned new station at Macroom. 

I further understand that acquisition by the OPW of sites for the new Sligo and Clonmel stations is well advanced.  Once that acquisition process is completed, the development of the PPP bundle will be progressed under the auspices of the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA).

Independent Review Mechanism

Ceisteanna (100)

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

100. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the publication of the report carried out by a person (details supplied) that was published on 27 March 2018. [16523/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice and Equality

The report of the Independent Review of the response of the Department of Justice and Equality to requests for documents from the Disclosures Tribunal was published by the Taoiseach on 27 March 2018. 

I want to again thank Michael Collins SC for undertaking this task, and for the comprehensive, efficient and professional way in which he carried out his review.

I welcome Mr. Collins’s central conclusion that there was no attempt by my Department to conceal information from the Tribunal in any way and that my predecessor and Department officials acted at all times in good faith and believed that they were acting reasonably in the manner in which they conducted searches for documentation.  Mr. Collins also stated that he found no evidence of any failure to comply with Orders from the Tribunal.

I am of course concerned that emails of potential relevance to the Tribunal’s considerations were not located as part of the Department’s discovery process.  My Department is putting new measures in place that are aimed at ensuring that an oversight of this kind could not happen in future.  These plans are referred to and supported by Mr. Collins in his report.  These new measures include the use of specialist IT consultants, where needed, for discovery and the establishment of a separate unit to interact with Tribunals and Commissions.  There is a civil-service wide initiative underway in relation to electronic file management and this will help to ensure that electronic documents, including emails, can more easily be associated with relevant files.  

My full statement on the matter can be found on my Department's website, www.justice.ie.

Strategic Communications Unit

Ceisteanna (101, 102, 103, 104, 107, 108, 117)

Marc MacSharry

Ceist:

101. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Taoiseach the amount of the €5 million budgeted for the Strategic Communications Unit in Budget 2018 which will remain; the areas in which these remaining funds will be used; and the purpose to which the funding will be used [15239/18]

Marc MacSharry

Ceist:

102. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Taoiseach if there will be consequent redundancies arising from the discontinuance of the Strategic Communications Unit; if so, the number, position and grades of each; the redundancy payments that will arise; if no staff are exiting, the locations to which they will be redeployed; and the role or purpose of each; the number of positions and grades. [15240/18]

Marc MacSharry

Ceist:

103. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Taoiseach the number, positions and grade of each position created for the purposes of establishing the Strategic Communications Unit. [15241/18]

Marc MacSharry

Ceist:

104. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Taoiseach the costs and expenditure from the €5 million provided in Budget 2018 for the Strategic Communications Unit that have been expended up to and including 27 March 2018; the estimated further expenditure of the €5 million in the period between 27 March 2018 and the winding down of the unit in July 2018; and the amounts and purpose for which the moneys are expected to be used in tabular form. [15242/18]

Niall Collins

Ceist:

107. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach the location in which all of the 15 staff that were assigned to the Strategic Communications Unit as outlined in the report on the unit are now working in his Department; and the reporting relationships of same. [16900/18]

Niall Collins

Ceist:

108. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach if staff that were assigned to the Strategic Communications Unit have been redeployed to their original positions within his Department or in other seconded areas. [16901/18]

Fiona O'Loughlin

Ceist:

117. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Taoiseach if the staff employed under the Strategic Communications Unit will be paid redundancy. [15330/18]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 to104, inclusive, and 107, 108 and 117 together.

On 27 March 2018, the Government noted the comprehensive Review of the Operation of the Strategic Communications Unit (SCU) completed by the Secretary General to the Government, and accepted its recommendations. Having taken a wide range of issues into consideration, as set out in the Review report, the Secretary General recommended:

- that the SCU should be wound down;

- that the Department should revert to a reformed Government Information Service (GIS) model, with a smaller budget, less staff and a more limited role than the SCU; and that measures should be put in place across Government Departments which preserve the valuable and necessary reforms to ensure value for money, professionalisation and modernisation in government communications activity.

There will be a transition period until July 2018 for the implementation of all of the recommended next steps as set out in the Review.

At time of publication of the Review, there were fifteen staff assigned to the SCU comprising one Director (Assistant Secretary level); one Principal Officer; four Assistant Principal Officers; one Higher Executive Officer equivalent (Acting); one Higher Executive Officer; three Administrative Officers; three Communications & Media Assistants (Executive Officer equivalent); and one Executive Officer.

The reassignment of staff is being dealt with as a confidential HR matter by the management of my Department in consultation with each individual staff member.

As outlined in the Review, surplus staff will be given the opportunity to be reassigned to another post either within my Department or in other Departments or agencies. In some cases, the duties of staff will not change as they either predated the establishment of the SCU or their work will continue in a reformed GIS. There will be no redundancies arising from the implementation of the recommendations of the Review.

Following the publication of the Review, I informed the House (and the Select Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and the Taoiseach) that the 2018 funding allocation for the Unit would be reduced by €2.5 million. Indeed, my Department has subsequently been liaising with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to give effect to this €2.5 million reduction in my Department's 2018 Revised Estimate. This will result in my Department's 2018 Estimate being 9% less that its 2017 Estimate.

Details of expenditure by the SCU up to the end of March 2018 are contained in Table 1.

Table 1

Details	As at 31 March 2018 (€)
Travel & Subsistence	3,306.36
Advertising and Incidental Expenses	375,694.34
Postal & Telecommunications	437.11
Office Equipment	9,528.66
Total	€388,966.47

The figures included in Table 1 represent actual expenditure incurred and processed through my Department’s financial management system to end March 2018. Additional invoices for various projects are currently being processed or are yet to be received.

Table 2 shows details of committed expenditure by the SCU of €2.2 million (inclusive of the €388,966.47 detailed in Table 1). This leaves a balance of approximately €265,000 for running costs of the Unit up to July 2018, when the Unit will be wound down.

Table 2

Campaign	Media (€)	Production (€)	Total (€)
Healthy Ireland	214,058	35,505	249,563
Global Ireland	301,000	182,454	483,454
Education Action Plan	9,330	0	9,330
Bliain Na Gaeilge	3,756	0	3,756
Self Employed	58,629	4,245	62,874
Legislation	0	10,945	10,945
Irish Aid	1,750	0	1,750
Project Ireland 2040 launch events and activities	497,271	258,848	756,119
Campaigns VAT			362,892
Subtotal - Campaigns	1,085,794	491,997	1,940,683
Projects
Gov.ie	35,000
Research Programme	159,900
CPD Programme	5,000
Identity Programme	35,000
2017 Projects	60,000
Subtotal - Projects	294,900
Total Committed Spend			2,235,583

Ministerial Allowances

Ceisteanna (105)

Clare Daly

Ceist:

105. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach if a ministerial allowance is claimed in respect of his ministerial role at the Department of Defence. [15443/18]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

I do not receive an allowance in respect of my role as Minister for Defence. I am in receipt of one office holder allowance - in respect of my role as Taoiseach.

National Security Committee

Ceisteanna (106)

Jack Chambers

Ceist:

106. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Taoiseach the details of all meetings of the National Security Committee; and the dates the committee met. [15969/18]

Freagraí scríofa

The Taoiseach

Having regard to the confidential nature of the National Security Committee, it would not be appropriate to disclose information about the dates of individual meetings or about its proceedings.

The Committee is chaired by the Secretary General to the Government and comprises representatives at the highest level of the Departments of Justice & Equality, Defence and Foreign Affairs and Trade, and of the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.

It is concerned with ensuring that the Government and I are advised of high level security issues and the responses to them.

The Committee meets as required and will continue to do so. It should be noted that the members of the Committee also attend Cabinet Committee F and this provides the members with an additional forum to liaise and monitor developments that might have national security implications, in particular in the international arena. Cabinet Committee F has met three times.