Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 May 2018
291. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress which has been made in terms of implementing a statutory power in order to facilitate unannounced visits by the Garda Síochána Inspectorate to Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23648/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn November 2017, the Garda Síochána Inspectorate made a submission to the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. Within this submission the Inspectorate state that a power to carry out unannounced visits to Garda stations would be helpful in carrying out their functions.
They go on to note that unannounced visits would enable the Inspectorate to examine high-risk areas in real time, obtain a more accurate reflection of current practices and undertake time-critical inspection work. Furthermore, the Inspectorate state in their submission that such a power would also be necessary should the Inspectorate become a designated body for the purpose of inspecting Garda places of detention or Garda custody areas.
The functions of the Garda Inspectorate, as set out in the Garda Síochána Act 2005, as amended, gives it the power to carry out, if it considers it appropriate to do so, inspections or inquiries in relation to any particular aspects of the operation and administration of the Garda Síochána. In accordance with section 118 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended) the Inspectorate has agreed protocols with An Garda Síochána relating to co-operation matters.
As the Deputy will be aware the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland is undertaking a comprehensive examination of all aspects of policing including the full range of bodies that have a role in providing oversight and accountability for their activities; the Policing Authority, the Garda Inspectorate, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, the Department and Government.
Up to the end of March 2018 the Commission had received 317 submissions, carried out 36 formal Commission meetings, held 11 public events, visited 19 stations and held over 100 bi-lateral meetings.
The Commission is due to report in September. Their report will inform policy in relation to all matters affecting An Garda Síochána, including the role and functions of the Garda Inspectorate and I propose to await the Commission's Report before considering any further changes to the legislation.
