Written Answers Nos. 1 - 56
37. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the ongoing construction work on the upgrade of Mullingar courthouse; when it will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22541/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that, 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.
In 2012, the construction or extension/refurbishment of seven courthouses under the Courts Public Private Partnership Bundle (PPP) was included as part of the €2.25 billion Government’s Infrastructure Stimulus programme. I am delighted to inform the Deputy that a significant upgrade and refurbishment of Mullingar Courthouse is currently nearing completion.
The extended and refurbished Mullingar Courthouse will provide three modern courtrooms enabling Circuit and District Court sittings in civil, criminal and family law cases, improved custody facilities, court offices and associated facilities and will provide much improved facilities for all court users in Mullingar and it will also result in the restoration of an important heritage building for Mullingar. The estimated cost of the capital development project of the Mullingar Courthouse is €14.1 million.
The Courts Service has advised that the works at Mullingar Courthouse are now in their final stages and are expected to be substantially completed in the coming weeks after which the building will be commissioned and certified for hand over to the Courts Service. Following hand over, the Courts Service office will move back into the courthouse from its current location on Church Avenue with a view to court sittings resuming in the refurbished building in the Autumn.
In terms of scale, the Courts Public Private Partnership Bundle project is the largest capital building project ever undertaken by the Courts Service, delivering a total of 31 courtrooms and 36,000 m2 of accommodation nationwide. New or refurbished courthouses have already been completed at six locations in various parts of the country – in Drogheda, Letterkenny, Wexford, Limerick, Waterford and Cork. The total capital cost of the Courts PPP Bundle is approximately €149.9 million.
The Government has already invested over €523 million in the Courts infrastructure between 2003 and 2016 and a number of further developments in relation to the Courts Service accommodation requirements are outlined in the Government's recent National Development Plan 2018 -2027. The completion of the newly refurbished and upgraded Mullingar Courthouse is a further example of the Government’s commitment to improve access to justice for our citizens.
39. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will direct the Law Reform Commission to undertake a review of the coroner court system, including a re-examination of the way in which it operates, its operational procedures, the roles involved, the outcome of the jury in the court process and the changes which need to be made (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22379/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe tragic incident concerned took place on 1 July, 2012 and I want to express my sympathies to the family of the deceased person.
I understand that the then coroner for Kerry South and East opened an inquest on 24 September 2012, and adjourned it, as he was obliged to do, on foot of a request from An Garda Síochána under Section 25 of the Coroners Act, 1962. I am informed, however, that a death certificate in respect of the deceased was issued promptly in 2012 by the Civil Registrar on foot of notification by the coroner that an inquest had been opened and adjourned.
The death in this case resulted from a hit and run event and the driver fled the jurisdiction immediately afterwards. This led to a lengthy and complex investigation by the Gardaí. The driver was eventually detained in the UK and returned to Ireland in 2014. A successful criminal prosecution against him concluded in April 2015.
In addition, however, following the conclusion of that case, the Gardaí took a criminal prosecution against another person in relation to the incident which concluded in late June 2017. I understand that there were also civil proceedings which concluded in January 2018.
I am informed that the current coroner for Kerry South and East received confirmation from the Gardaí in January 2018 that the inquest could proceed and she made arrangements for the inquest which was completed in early May 2018. The inquest returned a verdict of accidental death in respect of the deceased person. As the Deputy will be aware, an inquest is not permitted to return a verdict that apportions blame or exoneration to a person. That is a matter entirely for the courts established under the Constitution.
As you will appreciate, I can make no particular comment on the outcome of the criminal cases concerned. Nor do I, as Minister, have a role in the conduct of an inquest by a coroner or of a criminal investigation by An Garda Síochána. I understand that the deceased's family praised the painstaking work of the Gardaí in their investigation into the death.
I have every sympathy for the family in this case, who had to deal with a long delay between the death of their loved one and the completion of the inquest. The particular circumstances of the case are such that I do not believe they justify a review of the coronial system as a whole and I therefore have no plans to make a request to the Law Reform Commission as suggested by the Deputy.
40. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider re-evaluating the restrictions in place on the right to work of asylum seekers with regard to specific occupations in view of a Supreme Court decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22698/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government responded to the Supreme Court judgment by deciding to opt in to the EU (recast) Reception Conditions Directive which will result in a wide range of reforms in the protection system. This opt-in will allow for an effective labour market access for protection applicants who have not received a first instance decision over a designated period of time. I am confident that this decision to opt into the Directive is a very positive development for the entire protection system and for applicants and their families while they await a final decision on their application. In addition to labour market access, the Directive also includes important provisions in relation to children’s rights, health, education and material reception conditions for applicants, which includes housing, food, clothing and a daily expenses allowance.
The Government initiated the opt-in process with the EU Commission which is on target to be completed in June. Because this process takes some time, interim measures needed to be put in place. Accordingly, Government decided that international protection applicants, as a category of non-EEA nationals, should come under the terms of the Employment Permits Act 2003 (as amended) which is the existing law governing the employment of all third country nationals. Under that Act, persons can apply for an employment permit in certain sectors defined by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation. In addition, I utilised my own powers to introduce a complementary self-employment scheme for eligible applicants (those in the system for over nine months without a first instance recommendation) – Ireland is one of very few European countries allowing such access. This also ensured that a structure was available to vindicate the applicants’ right to labour market access on the day the prohibition was struck down. The total number of Self Employment applications received to date is 629, of which 430 have been granted.
I would stress that this interim scheme will be of very short duration until the opt-in process into the EU Directive is completed. The process of compliance is on course to be completed within the planned timeframe. Once this happens, access to the labour market will be underpinned by EU law and I will have the opportunity as Minister for Justice and Equality to bring to Government a new scheme granting effective access to the labour market for qualified applicants. I expect that this permanent scheme will provide for a broader access to the labour market than the current work permits regime allows for all third country national migrants. The details of this new scheme are well advanced and will be announced and commenced in the coming weeks in line with the commitments made previously.
I am confident that this progressive approach by Government, which for the first time will see additional elements of our protection process subject to EU law and verification by the EU Commission, will be a further major effective and reforming step as we seek to improve the standards of our reception conditions and efficient determination of protection applications.
41. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí attached to core Garda units in Cork city Garda division compared with 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22687/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI should say at the outset that the distribution of Garda personnel is exclusively the statutory responsibility of the Garda Commissioner
I am informed by the Commissioner that in order to deliver an effective policing service, it is essential that Garda management have the flexibility to deploy Garda resources to meet operational policing needs and address critical issues as they arise. For this reason, it is a matter for the Divisional Chief Superintendent to determine the optimum distribution of duties among the personnel available to him or her having regard to the profile of the area and its specific needs at any given time. The material requested by the Deputy is, therefore, not available in the manner requested.
By way of assistance to the Deputy, I am further informed by the Commissioner that the strength of the Cork City Division in 2010 and on 30 April 2018, the latest date for which information is currently available, was 698 and 682 respectively. There are also 42 Garda Reserves and 72 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.
I can assure the House that the 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 make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021, including 15,000 Garda members.
Real, tangible progress has been made towards this goal. Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 - a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.
The Deputy will be aware that in 2010 a previous Government closed the Garda College and imposed a moratorium - the measures imposed at that time had a negative impact on Garda numbers across all Divisions and the legacy of these decisions continues to have consequences for policing. When it had brought about an early exit from the bailout and stabilized the public finances, in September 2014 the then Government reopened the College and since then just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and are performing mainstream duties nationwide, 48 of whom have been assigned to 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; some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 1,600 more Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next two years. This is an ambitious programme of accelerated recruitment. To ensure a continuous pipeline of candidates a new recruitment drive was launched by the Commissioner last week with a closing date of 6 June. The competition is being undertaken by the Public Appointment Service on behalf of the Commissioner and applications should be made to www.publicjobs.ie.
In addition to the investment in more Gardaí, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited 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.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and enhance visibility within our communities and will enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every Garda Division, including the Cork City Division, as new Garda recruits continue to come on stream.
42. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the way in which he plans to respond to the recommendation in the recent Garda culture audit (details supplied) that more members be appointed to the rank of sergeant to deal with the perceived supervision vacuum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22647/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the recent publication of the independent organisational culture audit commissioned by An Garda Síochána and conducted by PwC. I am sure the Deputy will agree that the conduct of such an audit, the first of its kind undertaken by An Garda Síochána, is of major significance in the context of the reform programme underway. Reform of culture is generally recognised as one of, if not the, critical component in the transformation of any organisation, albeit one of the most difficult to achieve and sustain.
I have discussed the report with the Commissioner and fully endorse his view that the report provides a valuable resource for the organisation and I share his view that it is of critical importance in informing the organisation's provision of the best supports to its people, which will in turn transform the service provided to the public.
It is encouraging that there was a strong response rate to the audit within An Garda Síochána with over 6,500 personnel – members, reserves and civilians – participating through a mix of methods including a survey, focus groups and interviews. Based on this high level of participation, the report can be regarded as establishing a very strong and representative view of the organisation's culture.
I welcome the positives in the report including, in particular, the pride in the central role An Garda Síochána plays in protecting and supporting communities, the value personnel place on using police powers appropriately and acting with integrity and honesty; the esprit de corps, and the "can do" attitude. It is important that these positives are recognised and that they are not taken for granted.
It is important to realise that these positive attributes can also become negatives if taken to extremes and, of course, the report also highlights key areas for improvement including in relation to how the leadership is perceived, how personnel are held to account, how those who speak up are treated, what is termed the "supervision vacuum" and the view, whether real or perceived, that the promotion process for the supervisory ranks is not merit-based.
These are important issues that need to be considered in depth. I am informed by the Commissioner that An Garda Síochána is considering the report in order to formulate a considered and effective response to its insights and recommendations. I understand that the senior leadership team has already met collectively to discuss the report with a view to specific actions being developed before the Autumn.
My Department has, of course, a contribution to make in relation to a number of the areas identified as needing improvement including the areas of supervision and the perceived or real view that promotions at the level of sergeant and inspector are influenced by favouritism and nepotism.
In relation to supervision it is critical that new Gardaí have adequate supervision and support to carry out their duties in a manner that reflects the Code of Ethics that is now in place to guide the actions of all personnel. I know that the Commissioner is fully seized of the importance of this.
A number of competitions are currently in train to fill existing vacancies in the key supervisory ranks of Sergeant and Inspector with the aim of bringing the strength of these ranks to 2,000 and 300 respectively as agreed under the Employment Control Framework.
It is not just about filling existing vacancies. It is also about ensuring that Gardaí are doing the job that they are trained to do. As part of the civilianisation process underway, close to 80 Gardaí have been redeployed including seven sergeants and six inspectors. I have made it clear to the Commissioner that I expect this to accelerate significantly this year. To that end I welcome the fact that the Commissioner has directed that the redeployment of sergeants from administrative duties to frontline supervisory duties be prioritised in the short term to address any supervisory gaps.
The Deputy will be aware that the Government has agreed an overall vision for the Garda workforce of 21,000 by 2021 including 15,000 Gardaí. The Government is committed to ensuring that, as the number of Gardaí increases towards 15,000, the sergeant and inspector ranks expand commensurately.
In relation to promotion processes for the supervisory ranks it is important to note that the selection boards have a majority of external lay members appointed by the Policing Authority under the relevant Regulations. It is also important to say that the Commission on Public Service Appointments in its 2015 audit of the promotion process concluded that it was broadly satisfied that the processes incorporates adequate safeguards that protect the integrity of the selection processes and offers the necessary assurance that candidates are appointed on the basis of their interview performance. That said, it is clear that there is scope for the modernisation of the processes and I welcome the conclusion of the independent review commissioned by An Garda Síochána. The outcome of the review is under consideration by my Department with a view to an updated regulatory framework being developed and put in place for future competitions.
The report of the culture audit also raises issues that touch on resources more broadly. These matters will be examined in the context of the upcoming estimates process for 2019.
43. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the system of direct provision here is in compliance with the European Convention on Human Rights and the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22700/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraDirect Provision is the term used to describe the on arrival support system in Ireland whereby State services including accommodation, food, health and education are directly provided to international protection applicants through the relevant Government Department or Agency. It is a whole of government support system for those seeking international protection in Ireland, although the term tends to be used to describe Accommodation Centres that make up only a part of the overall system.
I appreciate the criticisms levelled at the system, which mainly relate to length of stay, but I do consider the system is relatively effective in meeting its primary objective of ensuring that those who come to our country seeking international protection have their rights vindicated and receive immediate food and shelter and have immediate access to our state services. It remains a fact that we do not know how many people will arrive on our shores seeking international protection on any given day but, because of the Direct Provision system, we know for certain that all applicants, are offered immediate shelter, full board accommodation and a range of services, such as healthcare and education while their applications for international protection are being processed. This fully meets our obligations under the Convention and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
A number of improvements have been achieved in implementing the recommendations of the McMahon Report and the Government has looked to further consolidate those improvements and build upon them. For example, a major reform of the system is underway to provide independent living arrangements for those who wish to avail of them. A total of 1714 applicants now have these facilities available to them and this is expected to increase to 1880 in the months ahead. In addition, International Protection Applicants now have full access to the services of the Ombudsman and Ombudsman for Children to follow up on any issues of concern.
The system will be reformed further arising from the decision to opt into the (recast) EU Reception Conditions Directive. The requirement to ensure the system complies with EU norms is another welcome advancement, which I intend will be concluded by June of this year. These requirements will be subject to EU oversight and place our services on a common European standard.
I can assure the Deputy that the Government is absolutely committed to ensuring that the Direct Provision system or any other aspect of our asylum system meets international standards. I personally want to ensure that our system in Ireland reaches or indeed exceeds international standards and I am confident that the external oversight which we have opted into, arising from our participation in the EU Directive, will assure that our conditions continue to improve.
44. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the capital investment being made in Garda resources in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22399/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
However I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda division.
Furthermore when allocations are taking place, comprehensive consultation is carried out with local management. Where a deficiency in resources is identified the matter is considered fully and addressed accordingly.
There has been very significant investment in Garda resources across the State in recent years and some relevant details for counties Cavan and Monaghan are as follows.
Buildings and accommodation
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.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that during the period since March 2016, minor maintenance and refurbishment works were approved in the Cavan/Monaghan Division in the following Garda stations: Bailieborough, Ballyconnell, Blacklion, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, Cavan, Emyvale, Kingscourt, Monaghan, and Rockcorry.
Under the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021, a new Garda station in Bailieborough will be constructed. I understand that the OPW is now finalising planning documentation in relation to a site acquired and a Part 9 Planning application is expected to be lodged in the next number of weeks. Until planning, the required public procurement process and contract award are completed, it is not possible to give a definitive date for completion of the construction of the new station.
In advance of the development of a new station for Bailieborough, essential remediation works at the existing Garda station were also completed in 2016. These works involved enhancements to the public office and safety improvements throughout the building.
The OPW advises that it is planning to replace the windows in Monaghan Garda Station later this year under its planned Fabric Upgrade Programme.
Separate to the above Programmes, I am informed that An Garda Síochána seeks to address maintenance issues, including any refurbishment works, as they arise liaising closely with the OPW in this regard. The progression of any scheme of works is subject to the funding available and the competing accommodation priorities within An Garda Síochána.
In addition, the Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations, both urban and rural, to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order.
The Garda Commissioner's final report in that regard recommends that Bawnboy Garda Station in Co. Cavan be included in the pilot and the OPW and Garda Commissioner are engaging in relation to the works and estimated cost involved.
Garda Fleet
As the Deputy will appreciate, decisions in relation to the provision and allocation of Garda vehicles are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of his identified operational demands and the availability of resources. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter.
The Government's Capital Plan 2016 – 2021 provides €46 million for investment in the Garda fleet, to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and this is in addition to the investment of almost €30 million in the period 2013 to 2015. In total, in the period 2013 to 2017, almost €44 million has been invested in the fleet.
I am advised that the strength of the Garda Fleet in the Cavan/Monaghan Division as at 31 March 2018 is 59 vehicles.
Provision has been made to purchase an additional 25 vehicles for the Northern Region in 2018. The exact allocation of these vehicles will be determined by Assistant Commissioner for the Northern Region in accordance with operational policing priorities following delivery of these vehicles.
I understand that the allocation of Garda vehicles is monitored and reviewed by the Garda authorities on a continual basis. The responsibility for the efficient deployment of all official Garda vehicles in each Division is assigned to the Divisional Officer, who may allocate vehicles between stations as required by operational requirements.
Procurement
I am informed that where additional resources such as equipment including office equipment and furniture are required, applications are made by individual stations through the Divisional office to Garda Procurement.
For example, in respect of 2017 and to date in 2018 furniture and flooring was purchased for Monaghan, Carrickmacross and Bailieborough Garda Stations totalling €30,000.
All Garda operational members, including, members from Cavan/Monaghan Division have access to an on-line’ application system via the Garda intranet Portal for operational uniforms, and where they have a requirement for these items, applications are processed via this system. Procurement also processes requests from members for specialist uniform and equipment, including for example personal protective equipment, footwear, motorcycle uniforms, and epaulettes. It is not possible in the time available to identify the breakdown of such applications which relate to counties Cavan and Monaghan.
Finally, I am informed that where there is a requirement for additional IT infrastructure these applications are processed centrally via Garda ICT.
45. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there has been consultation with young persons regarding delivering the best and most meaningful programmes in an improved Garda youth diversion programme, especially in disadvantaged areas. [22649/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy colleague Minister David Stanton has lead responsibility in this area and I know that he is totally committed to ensuring that these very valuable programmes are delivered to the highest standard. As has been indicated previously in replies to the House on this issue, meaningful consultation on this matter is of paramount importance. I can confirm for the Deputy that my Department is running an extensive consultation process at present, essentially around two questions:
- The development of an agreed statement of what the Garda Youth Diversion Project (GYDP) service is – how it should operate, the range of interventions and supports deployed to assist participants in turning their lives around and to support their families and to prevent young people becoming involved in crime in the first place; the strong links required with other service providers and programmes that support communities, families and young people at risk to ensure effectiveness of the GYDP service; and the sense of local community participation and ownership of the work that is also critical to the design of programmes of work that take account of local circumstances and needs and thus have the potential to make a long-term impact; and
- the optimum local geographical areas for organisation of individual projects with the objectives of keeping those strong links with local community and other service provider stakeholders that are essential to the successful operation of GYDP and of ensuring that the service is available throughout the State.
It was originally envisaged that the consultation process would run to the end of April, but such has been the interest from local GYDPs and other stakeholders in participating and the number of requests for meetings that the opportunity to participate and make views known has been extended to mid-June.
My Department has already had consultations with a number of young people who participate in GYDPs and that has been organised by a number of projects with assistance from the GYDP Best Practice Team, which works with my Department in the management of the project network. My Department has also made arrangements with the Participation Hub in the Department of Children and Youth Affairs for a formal consultation process to be undertaken by them also, which will also feed into this process. A Steering Committee drawn from the various stakeholders within the GYDP network etc. has been established to advise on design of this process, including on arrangements for participation of young people in further design work and in a series of local consultation meetings. The Steering Committee met on 17 May 2018 and arrangements are being made now to establish a small advisory group of young people who have participated in GYDPs and who will be charged with design of the local consultations with their peers, including the questions to be asked. This work will be completed as soon as possible and the local consultations will take place over the next month or so. The feedback will be complied and a report published and this – together with the feedback from all elements of the overall consultation process – will be a valuable contribution to the future direction of the organisation and of the day-to-day work of Garda Youth Diversion projects.
46. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the additional support in equipment and vehicles, in addition to extra Garda numbers, allocated to counties Longford and Westmeath in the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22540/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, decisions in relation to the provision and allocation of Garda vehicles are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of his identified operational demands and the availability of resources. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter.
I can confirm, however, that this Government is fully committed to tackle all forms of criminality and this is evidenced by the increased allocation of resources to An Garda Síochána in recent times.
Some €1.65 billion has been allocated to the Garda Vote for 2018. This is an increase of approximately 2% over the allocation for 2017.
Some €342 million, including €217 million in additional funding under the Capital Plan, is being invested in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021 to enable An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting edge technologies in delivering professional policing and security services for the community.
Further, the Government's Capital Plan 2016 – 2021 provides for significant resourcing of An Garda Síochána. In particular, €46 million was allocated for investment in the Garda Fleet to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and this is in addition to the investment of almost €30 million in the period 2013 to 2015. In total in the period 2013 to end of 2017, almost €44 million has been invested in the fleet with some 2,000 vehicles coming on stream in that period.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the allocation of Garda vehicles is monitored and reviewed on a continual basis and that vehicles are allocated between districts as required by operational circumstances including, for example, when vehicles are required to substitute for vehicles under repair.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that between 2015 and 2017, a total of 29 vehicles were allocated to Roscommon Longford Division, comprising 11 vehicles in 2015, 10 vehicles in 2016 and 8 vehicles allocated in 2017. The fleet in Roscommon/Longford Division currently comprises 53 vehicles. This represents an overall increase of 11 vehicles since December 2014.
For the same period, a total of 34 vehicles were allocated to the Westmeath Division, comprising 9 vehicles allocated in 2015, 20 vehicles in 2016 and 5 vehicles in 2017. The current strength of the fleet in Westmeath Division is 69 vehicles. This represents an overall increase of 20 vehicles since December 2014.
Regarding other equipment, I am informed that a great deal of new IT and office equipment has been allocated to the Roscommon/Longford and Westmeath Divisions in recent years.
Finally, I am informed by the Commissioner that the strength of the Roscommon/Longford and the Westmeath Divisions on 30 April 2018, the latest date for which information is currently available, was 311 and 312 respectively. There are also 7 Garda Reserves and 30 Garda civilian staff attached to the Roscommon/Longford Division and 12 Garda Reserves and 23 Garda civilian staff attached to the Westmeath 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. I am further informed that, of the recruits who have attested as members of An Garda Síochána since re-opening of the Garda college and who are performing mainstream duties nationwide, 15 have been assigned to the Roscommon Longford Division and 32 have been assigned to Westmeath Division.
47. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on crime gangs in the Dublin region in 2018 compared with 2017. [22381/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to thank the Deputy for raising this important issue.
An Garda Síochána have made important progress in tackling the insidious threat of organised crime, particularly in Dublin’s North Inner-City. There is ongoing contact between officials from my Department and An Garda Síochána to ensure a proactive approach is taken to bring to justice those who seek to carry out such shocking murders and prevent further loss of life where possible.
The Government, for its part, is committed to providing An Garda Síochána with the necessary resources to tackle this and all forms of criminality in our State.
The House will be aware that Operation Hybrid was established to coordinate the response to violent crime in Dublin and address concerns about community safety, particularly in the North East Inner City (NEIC). This operation benefits from significant support by the Armed Support Unit.
As of 15 April 2018, the robust Garda response to the series of shootings perpetrated by violent criminals in Dublin has resulted in:
- 73 arrests;
- 13 charges in total (of which 10 charges related to murder investigations, 3 charges for related offences);
- 37 firearms seized (in relation to murder offences);
- In the region of 270 searches;
-16,514 lines of enquiry conducted with more than 57,317 high visibility checkpoints implemented with significant support from Armed Support Units; and
- A significant amount of CCTV footage, mobile phone traffic, and forensic evidence has also been examined.
Indeed, An Garda Síochána have stated that they have prevented in excess of 50 potential gang-related murders as a result of targeted policing operations since the incident at the Regency Hotel in 2016. In addition, one person has been convicted in January of this year for a feud-related murder and other criminal trials are ongoing.
Along with vigorously pursuing the investigation of shootings and other violent incidents, Gardaí have had significant successes in targeting the drugs trade, which fuels the activities of organised criminals. We have already seen a series of very significant drugs seizures, as well as important seizures of firearms and significant banking information.
We have also seen unprecedented international cooperation between Irish and Spanish authorities, leading to important arrests and seizures, with police officers from both jurisdictions participating in successful joint operations in Ireland and in Spain. In this context I would like to take this opportunity to commend the work of both the Spanish Authorities and An Garda Síochána which recently resulted in a significant seizure of drugs estimated to be valued at €3.4 million and the arrest of five individuals, four of whom are Irish citizens. These drugs were intercepted before they had a chance to be transported to Ireland.
It is also worth noting the substantial progress being made on the implementation of the Mulvey Report in helping to regenerate Dublin's North East Inner City and I will come back to this body of work later, time permitting.
I can assure the House that this Government remains entirely committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána continues to have the resources required to tackle this, and all forms of criminality, in our State.
48. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the way in which stations are manned by single Garda officers; the supports in this regard; the geographic area of each; and the length of time they are planned to be single Garda stations, in tabular form. [22692/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI should say at the outset that the distribution of Garda personnel is exclusively the statutory responsibility of the Garda Commissioner.
I am informed by the Commissioner that in order to deliver an effective policing service, it is essential that Garda management have the flexibility to deploy Garda resources to meet operational policing needs and address critical issues as they arise. For this reason, it is a matter for the Divisional Chief Superintendent to determine the optimum distribution of duties among the personnel available to him or her having regard to the profile of the area and its specific needs at any given time.
I am informed that there are 148 Garda stations that are manned by a single member of An Garda Síochána, many of which are open part-time only. I am further informed that they have the full support of their Divisional colleagues when required at the discretion of management. In addition, when appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is augmented by a large 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.
The Deputy will be aware that on foot of a commitment in the Programme for Government, the Garda Síochána Inspectorate, at the request of the Policing Authority, is carrying out a review of the dispersal and use of resources available to An Garda Síochána in the delivery of policing services to local communities. The Authority has informed the Inspectorate that the review should take account of:
- the changing environments in rural, developing urban and suburban areas;
- the views of local communities;
- the allocation and deployment of Garda resources at the local policing level, including the use of the Garda Reserve, Garda facilities and Garda equipment; and
- relevant recommendations made in previous Inspectorate reports.
The review will be comprehensive including a consultative process with local communities. It is the view of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate that the review should be completed within the first half of this year.
I can assure the House that the 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 make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021, including 15,000 Garda members.
Real, tangible progress has been made towards this goal. Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 - a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.
The Deputy will be aware that in 2010 a previous Government closed the Garda College and imposed a moratorium - the measures imposed at that time had a negative impact on Garda numbers across all Divisions and the legacy of these decisions continues to have consequences for policing. When it had brought about an early exit from the bailout and stabilized the public finances, in September 2014 the then Government reopened the College and since then just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and are performing mainstream duties nationwide.
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; some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 1,600 more Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next two years. This is an ambitious programme of accelerated recruitment. To ensure a continuous pipeline of candidates a new recruitment drive was launched by the Commissioner last week with a closing date of 6 June. The competition is being undertaken by the Public Appointment Service on behalf of the Commissioner and applications should be made to www.publicjobs.ie.
In addition to the investment in more Gardaí, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited 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.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and enhance visibility within our communities and will enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every Garda Division as new Garda recruits continue to come on stream.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to geographical area of the Garda stations manned by a single member of An Garda Síochána is in the table.
Stations with one Garda, 30 April 2018.
|
Station |
TOTAL |
|
ADARE |
1 |
|
AGLISH |
1 |
|
AHASCRAGH |
1 |
|
AN CHARRAIG |
1 |
|
ANNASCAUL |
1 |
|
ARDFINNAN |
1 |
|
ARDMORE |
1 |
|
ARLES |
1 |
|
ATHEA |
1 |
|
ATHLEAGUE |
1 |
|
AUGHRIM |
1 |
|
AVOCA |
1 |
|
BAILE AN FHEIRTÉARAIG |
1 |
|
BALLINDINE |
1 |
|
BALLINGARRY SOUTH |
1 |
|
BALLINTRA |
1 |
|
BALLON |
1 |
|
BALLYCOTTON |
1 |
|
BALLYCULLANE |
1 |
|
BALLYDUFF |
1 |
|
BALLYGAR |
1 |
|
BALLYHEIGUE |
1 |
|
BALLYLANDERS |
1 |
|
BALLYMACARBERRY |
1 |
|
BALLYMORE |
1 |
|
BALLYNOE |
1 |
|
BALLYPOREEN |
1 |
|
BALLYVAUGHAN |
1 |
|
BALTIMORE |
1 |
|
BANGOR ERRIS |
1 |
|
BANSHA |
1 |
|
BARNADERG |
1 |
|
BÉAL ÁTHA AN GHAORTHA |
1 |
|
BENNETSBRIDGE |
1 |
|
BLACKWATER |
1 |
|
BOHERBUE |
1 |
|
BONNICONLON |
1 |
|
BORRIS |
1 |
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
|
BORRISOLEIGH |
1 |
|
BRUREE |
1 |
|
BUTTEVANT |
1 |
|
CAMPILE |
1 |
|
CAPPAWHITE |
1 |
|
CARNA |
1 |
|
CARRICKBYRNE |
1 |
|
CARRICK-ON-BANNOW |
1 |
|
CARRIG NA BHFEAR |
1 |
|
CARRIGTWOHILL |
1 |
|
CASTLEMAINE |
1 |
|
CLOCH NA RÓN |
1 |
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
|
CLOGHEEN |
1 |
|
CLONASLEE |
1 |
|
CLONMANY |
1 |
|
CLOUGHJORDAN |
1 |
|
CLOYNE |
1 |
|
COACHFORD |
1 |
|
CONG |
1 |
|
CONVOY |
1 |
|
CREGGS |
1 |
|
DRIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
DRINAGH |
1 |
|
DURROW |
1 |
|
DURRUS |
1 |
|
EYRECOURT |
1 |
|
FETHARD |
1 |
|
FOYNES |
1 |
|
GLANTAINE |
1 |
|
GLEANN NA MUAIDHE |
1 |
|
GLENAMADDY |
1 |
|
GLENBEIGH |
1 |
|
GLENGARRIFF |
1 |
|
GLENMORE |
1 |
|
GOLDEN |
1 |
|
HACKETSTOWN |
1 |
|
HOLYCROSS |
1 |
|
HOSPITAL |
1 |
|
INDREABHÁN |
1 |
|
INNISHANNON |
1 |
|
KEADUE |
1 |
|
KEALKIL |
1 |
|
KENAGH |
1 |
|
KILBRITTAIN |
1 |
|
KILDORRERY |
1 |
|
KILDYSART |
1 |
|
KILLEAGH |
1 |
|
KILLESHANDRA |
1 |
|
KILLIMOR |
1 |
|
KILMACRENNAN |
1 |
|
KILMOGANNY |
1 |
|
KILRICKLE |
1 |
|
KILSHEELAN |
1 |
|
KILTIMAGH |
1 |
|
KILWORTH |
1 |
|
KINNITTY |
1 |
|
KNOCK |
1 |
|
KNOCKNAGOSHALL |
1 |
|
LEITIR MÓIR |
1 |
|
LETTERFRACK |
1 |
|
LISCARROLL |
1 |
|
LISDOONVARNA |
1 |
|
LIXNAW |
1 |
|
LORRHA |
1 |
|
LOUTH |
1 |
|
MAIGH CUILINN |
1 |
|
MILFORD |
1 |
|
MONEYGALL |
1 |
|
MONIVEA |
1 |
|
MOUNTCHARLES |
1 |
|
MOYLOUGH |
1 |
|
MULLINAHONE |
1 |
|
MULTYFARNHAM |
1 |
|
MYSHALL |
1 |
|
OULART |
1 |
|
OYLEGATE |
1 |
|
PALLASKENRY |
1 |
|
PASSAGE EAST |
1 |
|
PETTIGO |
1 |
|
PILTOWN |
1 |
|
PORTMAGEE |
1 |
|
PORTROE |
1 |
|
RATHCORMAC |
1 |
|
RATHMORE |
1 |
|
RATHMULLEN |
1 |
|
RATHVILLY |
1 |
|
RHODE |
1 |
|
ROCKCORRY |
1 |
|
ROSSCARBERY |
1 |
|
ROSSES POINT |
1 |
|
ROSSLARE STRAND |
1 |
|
SHERCOCK |
1 |
|
SHILLELAGH |
1 |
|
SHINRONE |
1 |
|
SHRULE |
1 |
|
SKREEN |
1 |
|
SMEAR |
1 |
|
SNEEM |
1 |
|
STUAKE |
1 |
|
SWANLINBAR |
1 |
|
TARELTON |
1 |
|
TEMPLETUOHY |
1 |
|
TIMOLEAGUE |
1 |
|
URLINGFORD |
1 |
|
WATERVILLE |
1 |
|
WHITEGATE |
1 |
|
WILLIAMSTOWN |
1 |
|
WOODFORD |
1 |
|
Total |
148 |
49. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review the significant decline in the number of gardaí assigned to Rathcoole Garda station since 2014 with the intent to increase Garda personnel at the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22375/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI should say at the outset that the distribution of Garda personnel is exclusively the statutory responsibility of the Garda Commissioner.
As the Deputy will be aware the Rathcoole Garda Station forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) West Division. I am informed by the Commissioner that on 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the strength of the DMR West Division was 672 of whom 14 were assigned to Rathcoole Garda Station. There are also 26 Garda Reserves and 55 civilians attached to the Division.
I can assure the House that the 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 make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021, including 15,000 Garda members.
Real, tangible progress has been made towards this goal. Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 - a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.
The Deputy will be aware that in 2010 a previous Government closed the Garda College and imposed a moratorium - the measures imposed at that time had a negative impact on Garda numbers across all Divisions and the legacy of these decisions continues to have consequences for policing. When it had brought about an early exit from the bailout and stabilized the public finances, in September 2014 the then Government reopened the College and since then just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and are performing mainstream duties nationwide, 155 of whom have been assigned to the DMR West Division.
It is important to appreciate that the increased specialisation within An Garda Síochána means that the number of Gardaí assigned to various Divisions does not include those assigned to various special bureaus or units and, of course, those Gardaí are also undertaking critical policing work, e.g. the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Armed Support Units, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. More than 120 extra Garda were assigned to the specialist units within Special Crime Operations since 2017 alone.
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; some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 1,600 more Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next two years. This is an ambitious programme of accelerated recruitment. To ensure a continuous pipeline of candidates a new recruitment drive was launched by the Commissioner last week with a closing date of 6 June. The competition is being undertaken by the Public Appointment Service on behalf of the Commissioner and applications should be made to www.publicjobs.ie.
In addition to the investment in more Gardaí, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited 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.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and enhance visibility within our communities and will enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every Garda Division, including the DMR West Division, as new Garda recruits continue to come on stream.
50. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the current family courts system will be examined, particularly with regard to County Kerry, to consider specific courts and judges to be assigned to family law cases; if the inclusion of a dedicated courtroom for family law, with consultation rooms, will be provided in the planning of the new infrastructure for Tralee courthouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22378/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra123. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if consideration will be given to a specific court and judges being assigned to family law cases in County Kerry; and if a dedicated courtroom for family law with consultation rooms will be included in the planning of the new infrastructure for Tralee courthouse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22865/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 123 together.
The Government is committed to significant reform of the courts, including the establishment of a family law court structure that is streamlined, more efficient, and less costly.
My Department is currently working on the General Scheme of a Family Court Bill, which will aim to streamline family law court processes, clarify jurisdictional issues and provide for a set of guiding principles to help ensure that the Family Court will operate in a user-friendly and efficient manner. The intention is to establish a dedicated Family Court within the existing court structures.
The Family Court Bill will support the provisions in the Mediation Act 2017 by encouraging greater use of alternative dispute resolution to assist in more timely resolution of family law cases.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is essential that there is proper planning and consultation with relevant stakeholders in order to ensure that the development of a new family court structure can be implemented smoothly and efficiently.
My Department has established a working group, comprising officials from my Department, the Courts Service and the Legal Aid Board, to examine the operational aspects relating to the Family Court. The intention is that the working group will develop an overall architecture for the new family court structure. The working group is consulting with other relevant stakeholders. Key issues arising in consultations include family court venues and facilities, resources and capital investment in family courts and integration of relevant family and child services to provide the best possible family law outcomes.
I hope to secure Government approval in the coming months for the General Scheme of a Family Court Bill. Once the General Scheme has been approved by Government, it will be referred to the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel for drafting and to the relevant Oireachtas Committee for pre-legislative scrutiny.
As the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions. Furthermore, the scheduling of court cases and the allocation of court business are matters for the Presidents of the Courts and the presiding judges who are, under the Constitution, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that there is a high level of family law business in the District Court in Kerry. The current waiting time from when a case is ready to proceed is 4 to 6 weeks for listing of new cases. Additional sitting days are being provided by the District Court Judge for the hearing of family law cases and the position is being kept under review.
The Courts Service has advised that family law cases in the Circuit Court are actively managed by the County Registrar using case progression, motion days and call overs to ensure that business is dealt with as efficiently as possible. When a family law case is ready to proceed in the Circuit Court in Kerry it is scheduled for the next sitting. Additional special sittings of the Circuit Court are sought where necessary if arrears arise.
The Courts Service has also informed me that as part of its provincial capital building programme, one of the objectives of the Courts Service is to provide improved court accommodation in Tralee with appropriate facilities for the hearing of family law and other court business.
The Courts Service has further advised that it envisages a courthouse comprising four courtrooms and related consultation and other facilities as being required to meet current and future needs in Tralee. The Courts Service is currently considering a number of options for the provision of appropriate court accommodation in Tralee 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 and the development of a new courthouse on an appropriate greenfield/brownfield site. The Courts Service has informed me that a decision has not yet been made and that all options are currently under review.
51. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 121 of 4 October 2017, the number of incidents since 2015 in which sums of money, confiscated money or evidence in a case were found to be missing, stolen or lost from a Garda station by the amount of missing, stolen or lost money involved, the date it was reported and the Garda station involved. [22689/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, I had initially sought a report from the Garda authorities in relation to this matter on 02 October 2017. In their response of 07 December 2017, I was advised by An Garda Síochána that as files from pre-2015 are stored off-site it would require a disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources to collate the information as originally requested by the Deputy.
The Deputy will recall that after further consultation between his office and my Department, I made further arrangements for this matter to be resubmitted to the Garda authorities on 29 January 2018 and requested a report on any information that was readily available to Gardaí.
I can assure the Deputy that officials from my Department are actively following up on this request with the Garda authorities and I will contact the Deputy immediately when the report is to hand.
52. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of additional gardaí who have been allocated to Tallaght Garda station; and the rank of each. [22380/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who 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 Garda Commissioner that, as of the 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are available, the strength of the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) South Division was 533 of whom 184 are assigned to Tallaght Garda Station. There are also 17 Garda Reserves and 36 Garda civilian staff attached to the 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. We are making real, tangible progress on achieving this goal.
Since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. 136 members of this cohort have been assigned to the DMR South Division of whom 51 have been assigned to Tallaght Garda Station. 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.
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; some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
In addition, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited 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.
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 DMR South Division.
For the Deputy's information I have set out in the following table the number of Gardaí by Rank assigned to Tallaght Garda Station on 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are currently available.
Tallaght Garda Station by rank 30 April 2018
|
Station |
GD |
SG |
IN |
SU |
CS |
AC |
TOTAL |
|
Tallaght |
162 |
17 |
4 |
1 |
184 |
53. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the ongoing allocation of additional gardaí in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22398/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who 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 Cavan/Monaghan Division on 30 April 2018, the latest date for which information is readily available, was 344. There are also 11 Garda Reserves and 38 Garda civilian staff attached to the Cavan/Monaghan 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.
The Deputy will also be aware that there is close and ongoing cooperation between An Garda Síochána and the PSNI on all aspects of policing, with a particular focus on combatting security threats and cross-border crime. The Commissioner and the Chief Constable of the PSNI, who are responsible for operational policing cooperation, have repeatedly emphasised the scope and the value of the close and high quality cooperation between the two police services in combating crime, protecting community safety and saving lives. The two police services operate a joint Cross-Border Policing Strategy which has as its aims to improve public safety throughout Ireland, to disrupt criminal activity and to enhance the policing capability of both police services on the island.
I can assure the Deputy that 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. We are making real, tangible progress on achieving this goal.
Since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide including 53 to the Cavan/Monaghan Division, 13 of whom were allocated from the most recent attestation of new Gardaí in March. 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.
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, some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
In addition, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited 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.
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 and its legacy is still having an impact. 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 Cavan/Monaghan Division.
54. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he had regard to the independent cultural audit (details supplied); and the measures he plans to pursue to increase and support morale. [22690/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the recent publication of the independent organisational culture audit commissioned by An Garda Síochána and conducted by PwC. I am sure the Deputy will agree that the conduct of such an audit, the first of its kind undertaken by An Garda Síochána, is of major significance in the context of the reform programme underway. Reform of culture is generally recognised as one of, if not the, critical component in the transformation of any organisation, albeit one of the most difficult to achieve and sustain.
I have discussed the report with the Commissioner and fully endorse his view that the report provides a valuable resource for the organisation and I share his view that it is of critical importance in informing the organisation's provision of the best supports to its people, which will in turn transform the service provided to the public.
It is encouraging that there was a strong response rate to the audit within An Garda Síochána with over 6,500 personnel – members, reserves and civilians – participating through a mix of methods including a survey, focus groups and interviews. Based on this high level of participation, the report can be regarded as establishing a very strong and representative view of the organisation's culture.
I welcome the positives in the report including, in particular, the pride in the central role An Garda Síochána plays in protecting and supporting communities, the value personnel place on using police powers appropriately and acting with integrity and honesty; the esprit de corps, and the "can do" attitude. It is important that these positives are recognised and that they are not taken for granted.
It is important to realise that these positive attributes can also become negatives if taken to extremes and, of course, the report also highlights key areas for improvement including in relation to how the leadership is perceived, how personnel are held to account, how those who speak up are treated, what is termed the "supervision vacuum" and the view, whether real or perceived, that the promotion process for the supervisory ranks is not merit-based.
These are important issues that need to be considered in depth. I am informed by the Commissioner that An Garda Síochána is considering the report in order to formulate a considered and effective response to its insights and recommendations. I understand that the senior leadership team has already met collectively to discuss the report with a view to specific actions being developed before the Autumn.
My Department has, of course, a contribution to make in relation to a number of the areas identified as needing improvement including the areas of supervision and the perceived or real view that promotions at the level of sergeant and inspector are influenced by favouritism and nepotism.
In relation to supervision it is critical that new Gardaí have adequate supervision and support to carry out their duties in a manner that reflects the Code of Ethics that is now in place to guide the actions of all personnel. I know that the Commissioner is fully seized of the importance of this.
A number of competitions are currently in train to fill existing vacancies in the key supervisory ranks of Sergeant and Inspector with the aim of bringing the strength of these ranks to 2,000 and 300 respectively as agreed under the Employment Control Framework.
It is not just about filling existing vacancies. It is also about ensuring that Gardaí are doing the job that they are trained to do. As part of the civilianisation process underway, close to 80 Gardaí have been redeployed including seven sergeants and six inspectors. I have made it clear to the Commissioner that I expect this to accelerate significantly this year. To that end I welcome the fact that the Commissioner has directed that the redeployment of sergeants from administrative duties to frontline supervisory duties be prioritised in the short term to address any supervisory gaps.
The Deputy will be aware that the Government has agreed an overall vision for the Garda workforce of 21,000 by 2021 including 15,000 Gardaí. The Government is committed to ensuring that, as the number of Gardaí increases towards 15,000, the sergeant and inspector ranks expand commensurately.
In relation to promotion processes for the supervisory ranks it is important to note that the selection boards have a majority of external lay members appointed by the Policing Authority under the relevant Regulations. It is also important to say that the Commission on Public Service Appointments in its 2015 audit of the promotion process concluded that it was broadly satisfied that the processes incorporates adequate safeguards that protect the integrity of the selection processes and offers the necessary assurance that candidates are appointed on the basis of their interview performance. That said, it is clear that there is scope for the modernisation of the processes and I welcome the conclusion of the independent review commissioned by An Garda Síochána. The outcome of the review is under consideration by my Department with a view to an updated regulatory framework being developed and put in place for future competitions.
The report of the culture audit also raises issues that touch on resources more broadly. These matters will be examined in the context of the upcoming estimates process for 2019.
55. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to engage with the Garda Commissioner to progress a dedicated public transport police within An Garda Síochána to ensure public safety and security for public transport users (details supplied); his views on the way in which this dedicated service should be established; the support he and his Department propose to provide to the Commissioner and his staff in the event of such a dedicated service being established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22374/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am of course aware of the serious incident that took place recently concerning a number of youths who vandalised a DART train as it arrived into Clongriffin station. The youths in question then proceeded to engage in other serious anti-social behaviour and accost members of the public. This is completely unacceptable behaviour and will not be tolerated.
I am advised that this incident is now the subject of an official investigation by An Garda Síochána, in conjunction with Irish Rail, with CCTV footage being reviewed to help identify the culprits. Photographs were also taken at the scene of the ‘graffiti tags’ which are also being circulated in order to identify any links with known graffiti offenders and I would encourage anyone with information about this incident to contact An Garda Síochána as soon as possible
In terms of tackling this particular type of crime, I am advised by An Garda Síochána that Garda management engages extensively with transport operators and that a range of regional and local operations have been put in place to address incidents and issues that have arisen at specific locations. There is ongoing communication between An Garda Síochána and the respective control centres, and access to good quality CCTV helps provide assistance to Gardaí when investigating serious incidents, such as what we saw in Clongriffin recently.
Furthermore, the Deputy will be aware that An Garda Síochána already employs a wide range of operational measures aimed at tackling public-order offences and anti-social behaviour. These measures are underpinned by the existence of a comprehensive legal framework, which assists the Gardaí in tackling this type of crime. Of course, addressing local community concerns in relation to public order and anti-social behaviour is a key focus in An Garda Síochána's National Community Policing Model and a range of strong legislative provisions are available to An Garda Síochána in this regard, including those under:
- the Criminal Damage Act 1991;
- Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994;
- the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2003; and
- the Intoxicating Liquor Acts 2003 and 2008.
For its part, the Government remains committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána have all the necessary resources to tackle all forms of criminality in our communities. In this context, the Deputy will be aware that some €1.65 billion has been allocated to the Garda Vote for 2018 and €98.5m has been provided for Garda overtime for 2018.
The 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. Budget 2018 will support the continuation of this high level of investment in the Garda workforce and ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track.
The provision of these additional resources to the Commissioner is a key component in this Government's approach to improving public safety throughout the country which will undoubtedly benefit policing in relation to transport services in Dublin and in other areas. In this regards I have no plans to engage with the Commissioner to progress a dedicated public transport unit within An Garda Síochána for the Dublin area. Investment is instead being made in enhancing the resources available for policing generally. I believe this is the best use of scarce resources.
A further consideration is the ongoing deliberations of the Commission on the Future of Policing. Its terms of reference include consideration of the structures and management arrangements required for the most effective delivery of policing to meet the challenges of modern policing. I look forward to receiving its report in September.
56. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the rollout of the community CCTV scheme and ensuring schemes can proceed.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22685/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to supporting investment in CCTV systems. In pursuance of this commitment, a new Community-based CCTV grant-aid Scheme was launched by my Department in April 2017 to assist groups in the establishment of community-based CCTV systems in their local areas. It is intended that the Scheme will run for 3 years with funding of some €1 million being made available each year.
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. Upon approval, the applicant will receive an up-front payment of 50% of the grant with the balance to be paid when the system is fully operational.
Schemes funded under this scheme will supplement the existing network of CCTV systems in operation in the State, namely the 35 Garda CCTV schemes in operation comprising in excess of 500 cameras; as well as the 45 Community-based CCTV schemes encompassing some 367 cameras to which An Garda Síochána have access, and which were established under the previous grant-aid scheme funded by my Department between 2005 and 2013.
The statutory requirements governing the establishment of community CCTV systems generally require that any proposed scheme must:
- be approved by the local Joint Policing Committee,
- have the prior support of the relevant Local Authority, which must also act as Data Controller – this is a long-standing statutory requirement, set out in the Garda Síochána (CCTV) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 289 of 2006), for the establishment of community CCTV systems generally, and
- have the authorisation of the Garda Commissioner in accordance with Section 38 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005.
This is the legal basis for all community CCTV schemes, regardless of whether or not grant funding is sought from my Department to assist in their establishment.
I would like to take the opportunity to confirm that 11 applications have been received to date and I understand that the Department has been informed that a further 14 applications will be submitted this month.
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 submitted to date have been returned to the applicants concerned to enable them to provide the information necessary to qualify for grant-aid.
In establishing the grant-aid scheme, the Department consulted broadly, including with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, An Garda Síochána, the Office of the Attorney General and the LGMA. Full details of the grant aid package are available to download from my Department's website www.justice.ie. In addition, my officials are available to provide assistance and guidance to any interested party in relation to the scheme, with a dedicated email address available for that purpose - communitycctv@justice.ie.
I am keen to ensure that all interested groups, in both rural and urban areas, take advantage of the availability of this grant-aid scheme and I encourage any interested groups to make contact with my Department with any queries.
