Written Answers Nos. 635-654
635. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of cases of domestic violence reported to An Garda Síochána in County Donegal in each of the years 2018, 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14293/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraCombatting domestic abuse is a priority for me and my Department. It is an important aspect of the National Strategy for Women and Girls and the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence and a range of actions are being taken in that regard, including public awareness raising campaigns. My Department developed an inter-agency plan to address domestic abuse during the Covid-19 pandemic and, in addition to the funding already allocated for 2020, has to date provided an additional €285,000 to date to organisations in the sector, to support and extend the existing services they offer during this period of the Covid-19 crisis.
I am informed by the Commissioner that An Garda Síochána too attaches the highest priority to domestic abuse incidents. This continues to be the case during the current Covid-19 pandemic and indeed a targeted, proactive operation, Operation Faoiseamh, has been established to ensure that victims of domestic abuse are supported and protected during this extraordinary time and to ensure that any domestic abuse incidents receive the highest priority response.
In its first phase, Garda Victim Services Offices nationwide made proactive contact with victims who have reported domestic abuse in the past, to identify any existing issues of concern. I am informed that over 8,200 contacts or attempts at contact to victims of domestic abuse were recorded by Gardaí as part of that work (between 1 January 2020 and 25 May 2020). I am further informed that Phase II of the operation began in mid-May and this involves a focus on targeting perpetrators - and in particular, cases of persistent breaches of protection, safety and barring orders under the Domestic Violence Act.
Gardaí also continue to develop their specialist services in this area and I understand that a total of 16 Divisional Protective Services Units have now been rolled out nationwide. This process is continuing and when complete, will meet a key action under 'A Policing Service for the Future', the implementation plan for the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.
In relation to statistics on the number of incidents in Donegal as requested by the Deputy, I would first point out that the Central Statistics Office (CSO), as the national statistical agency, is responsible for the compilation and publication of all crime statistics. The CSO produces these statistics using data including data recorded on An Garda Síochána’s PULSE system and makes regular releases under reservation in relation to various crime statistics, including recorded and detected crime. The CSO also continues to work with An Garda Síochána to address quality issues in the underlying sources used to compile the statistics.
However and in general, the Garda authorities have provided my Department with initial, provisional and operational data which shows that nationwide and in total, domestic abuse related calls have increased by 24% in the year to date; and that breaches of Domestic Violence Order Incidents have increased by 10% in comparison to the same time period last year.
Further and in response to the Deputy’s specific query in relation to Donegal, the Garda authorities have informed my Department that there were a total of 1044 domestic abuse incident reports in the Donegal Division in 2019; and that this year, from 1 January to 1 July 2020, there were a total of 560 such incident reports in the Donegal Division. I am informed that figures for 2018 are not comparable as the methodology at the time was different.
It is important to note that this is provisional, operational data and is subject to change. The Garda authorities inform me that these figures were arrived at through searches of the Pulse system to include incidents of the following categories: Breach of Interim Barring Order, Breach of Protection Order, Breach of Barring Order, Breach of Safety Order, Domestic Dispute - No Offence Disclosed, Breach of Emergency Barring Order, or any other incident type, with a recorded motive in Pulse of ‘Domestic Abuse’ and incidents recorded on PULSE where the dispatcher assigned the type as ‘DVSA’ (Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault).
636. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when each piece of Garda public order uniform and equipment was last updated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14294/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána by law is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the updating and distribution of Garda public order uniform and equipment, and I as Minister have no role in the matter.
With regard to the specific nature of your query, I have referred this matter to An Garda Síochána and will respond to the Deputy accordingly upon receipt of this information.
637. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank attached to each divisional protection services unit that have been established to date in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14296/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner has responsibility for management of An Garda Síochána and for the allocation and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for the distribution of personnel across the various Garda Divisions. As Minister I have no direct role in these matters.
I am assured that An Garda Síochána continues to implement the roll-out of DPSUs nationwide and aims to ensure that a DPSU will be in operation within every Garda Síochána division as soon as possible. Roll-out of these Units will meet a key commitment in A Policing Service for the Future , the four-year implementation plan giving effect to the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the table below shows the number of Gardaí attached to Protective Services Units as at 2 July 2020. CSI indicates Child Specialist Interviewers.
|
02/07/2020 |
GD |
SG |
INS |
SU |
CS |
|
G.N.P.S.B. |
42 |
15 |
6 |
3 |
1 |
|
DMR East |
10 |
2 |
1 |
||
|
DMR South |
18 |
4 |
|||
|
DMR South Central |
14 |
3 |
1 |
||
|
DMR West |
25 |
4 |
1 |
||
|
Kilkenny/Carlow |
13 |
2 |
1 |
||
|
Waterford |
12 + 2 CSI |
2 |
|||
|
Wicklow |
6 |
2 |
|||
|
Galway |
15 |
2 |
|||
|
Louth |
10 |
2 |
|||
|
Clare |
7 |
1 |
|||
|
Cork City |
11 |
2 |
|||
|
Cork West |
5 |
1 |
|||
|
Kerry |
9 |
2 |
1 |
||
|
Limerick |
11 |
2 |
|||
|
Tipperary |
5 + 2 CSI |
1 |
The resourcing of each Garda region and division is fully considered within the overall context of the needs and requirements of Garda regions throughout the country, including the Protective Services Units. Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategies, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda Resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
The allocation and transfer of Garda Personnel is determined by a number of factors, including crime and non-crime workload, minimum establishment, population, area, policing arrangements, operational strategies and transfers applications, including welfare issues. When allocations are taking place, comprehensive consultation is carried out with Local Management during which all factors are taken into consideration. Where a deficiency in resources is identified the matter is considered fully and addressed accordingly.
638. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of unmarked Garda vans that came into the fleet in 2019 and to date in 2020; the number of unmarked Garda vans withdrawn from the fleet in 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14297/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. Further, the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. This includes responsibility for the allocation of Garda vehicles among the various Garda divisions. As Minister, I have no role in these matters. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
Significant capital investment is being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million specifically for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. This continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.
Of this investment, a total of €9 million was made available for purchase and fit-out of additional Garda vehicles in 2020. I am also informed that in order to protect the ongoing availability of vehicles and in anticipation of the impact of public health restrictions on motor factory or fit-out workplaces, 94 additional vehicles were purchased by the Garda authorities in March 2020 at a cost of €2.4m and fit-out costs of €600,000. The allocation of these and all other vehicles in the fleet is entirely a matter for the Commissioner and his management team.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as of 30 June 2020, there were 2,961 vehicles attached to the Garda Fleet including 501 vans. I understand that this compares to a total of 2,794 vehicles as of end December 2019.
The following table, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, set out the number of unmarked vans allocated to and removed from the fleet in 2019 and 2020.
|
2019 |
Total |
|
Allocations |
19 |
|
Removals |
13 |
|
2020 (to 30 June) |
Total |
|
Allocations |
8 |
|
Removals |
1 |
As is standard, the Garda authorities indicate that allocations to the fleet may include vehicles which were purchased in the previous year, but in relation to which the technical fit-out process was not completed until the following year.
Finally and for clarity, it may be noted that these figures do not include the additional 210 vehicles which have been hired by An Garda Síochána this year, to provide additional capacity during the Covid-19 pandemic.
639. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will clarify the requirement to uphold shared care of children arrangements under the current Covid-19 restrictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14338/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI appreciate the concerns that the public health emergency is causing for many families in relation to court orders for access. The welfare of the child is paramount and parents continue to be responsible for ensuring their children’s welfare.
While setting the terms of court orders and related proceedings are matters proper to the courts, which neither I nor my Department are involved in, it is important to point out that court orders in relation to access remain in place and the restrictions brought in to tackle Covid-19 do not stop them being implemented.
During this time, however, there may be instances where it is impossible for couples to adhere strictly to the terms of an order and the HSE has issued detailed guidance on Covid-19 which includes information for people with particular health risks.
The President of the District Court has clarified that parents could come to mutually agreed arrangements for alternative contact, which could involve phone calls, or skype etc., such agreement being noted by email or text message.
It is also important to note that if parties cannot agree on an alternative arrangement, mediation services are still available and should be used. The Family Mediation Service of the Legal Aid Board is offering free telephone mediation and conflict coaching. More details about this service can be found at www.legalaidboard.ie, while other free parent support services which provide help and advice are available from www.onefamily.ie and www.treoir.ie.
In relation to recourse to the courts, the President of the District Court announced on 8 May that Applications and hearings for breach of maintenance or access that have occurred during the emergency period or applications and hearings for temporary guardianship orders can now be dealt with.
The Courts Service is also developing a family law business roadmap which has the aim of expanding the amount of business that can be safely transacted in the family courts later in the year. Court offices remain open by appointment only for essential business but are available to answer phone and e-mail queries.
640. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of approved applications for naturalisation that are awaiting a citizenship ceremony; if there are plans in place to clear the backlog in a safe way in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14359/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the necessary postponement of the citizenship ceremonies scheduled for this month in the INEC Killarney, work commenced immediately on the examination of alternative methods of service delivery.
A critical consideration is the protection of the welfare and safety of the participants and the general public. It is also essential that any arrangements put in place ensure the event is held with an appropriate degree of dignity and solemnity, as befits an event of such importance in the lives of our new citizens. Apart from marking a key milestone in the lives of those who have chosen this State as their home, the citizenship ceremonies satisfy an important legal requirement for the granting of a certificate of naturalisation as successful applicants must take an oath of fidelity to the Nation, as administered by the Presiding Officer, a retired member of the judiciary.
Testing has already commenced on platforms which will enable the delivery of virtual ceremonies and as soon as the necessary arrangements are in place, a notice will be placed on the ISD website and applicants will be informed.
It is my intention that large scale ceremonies will recommence once circumstances allow.
There are currently 5,869 applications at the final stages of processing with 2,347 already approved, where my predecessor indicated his intention to grant a certificate of naturalisation, subject to the outstanding conditions being satisfied.
While applications for naturalisation continue to be processed and alternative methods of work delivery have been implemented, restrictions imposed to protect against COVID 19 are presenting significant challenges resulting in delays in the processing of applications.
641. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the new functions, units or work areas her Department has gained; the functions, units and work areas have been moved to other Departments; the destination for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14370/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe transfer of functions between Departments is governed by the Ministers and Secretaries Acts 1924-2017, and will be determined by a Government decision and resulting Transfer of Functions Order.
The implementation of the transfer of functions is also guided by the Transfer of Functions Guidelines and Best Practice Handbook developed by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. This is available online at
https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/a490d1-transfer-of-functions-guidelines-and-best-practice-handbook/
In line with the Guidelines, a working group has been established within my Department to arrange the transfer of functions on foot of the new allocation of responsibilities. This group is working with officials in the Department of Children and Youth Affairs to make appropriate arrangements for the transfer.
I expect that final arrangements will be agreed, subject to Government approval, within the timelines set out under the Guidelines.
642. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to increase maternity benefit for mothers in the lifetime of the Government; if so, the estimated increase; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14397/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra643. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the provision for temporary extension of maternity leave and benefit for mothers impacted by the Covid-19 lockdown during which social interactions for new babies was greatly restricted will be considered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14400/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra644. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will advance her support for the campaign to temporarily extend maternity leave and maternity benefit by three months for those whose maternity leave has or will expire during the public health restrictions. [14434/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra647. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a temporary extension of maternity leave from six to nine months will be considered for mothers whose benefit claim expired during the Covid-19 lockdown. [14448/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra650. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will revisit the issue of extending maternity leave for new mothers that are due to return to work but have lost out on precious time with their babies due to the Covid-19 pandemic. [14479/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra654. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if maternity leave will be extended for women due to the Covid-19 crisis. [14503/20]
Amharc ar fhreagra657. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if clarity will be provided on the measures to temporarily extend maternity leave and maternity benefit by three months for those that are currently on maternity leave in view of Covid-19. [14580/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 642 to 644, inclusive, 647, 650, 654 and 657 together.
As the law now stands, a mother is entitled to paid maternity leave of up to 26 weeks, and up to a further 16 weeks of unpaid leave. Two weeks must be taken before the baby is due, and at least four weeks must be taken after the birth.
Any amendment to the legislation governing the provision of maternity leave, which falls under my responsibility, would require primary legislation. The provision of maternity benefit is under the remit of the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection.
in addition to maternity leave, each parent may also avail of two weeks of parent’s leave during the first year of a child’s life and may qualify for parent’s benefit during this period. Parental leave is also available which entitles parents to take unpaid leave from work to spend time looking after their children. Parents can take up to 22 weeks of parental leave for each eligible child before their 12th birthday.
Consideration is currently being given to these issues.
On 29 May the Minister for Finance announced changes to the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme to accommodate the salaries of parents returning from maternity or adoptive leave. The changes are aimed at individuals who may not have been on the payroll of their employer on 29 February, or been paid in either January or February 2020 and will allow for consistent treatment with other employees. The amendment will be legislated for later in the year as part of the usual Finance Bill 2020 process, but in the interim Revenue has agreed to provide a facility to accommodate such cases. Although expected to be implemented on the 12th June, Revenue launched a new process on Monday 8th June which allows employers to include employees returning to employment after a period of paternity, parental or related unpaid leave or were in receipt of Health and Safety Benefit, Parent’s Benefit or Illness Benefit paid by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP). Employers who wish to access the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme on behalf of eligible employees covered by these changes can do so by completing a short form available for download via MyEnquiries in Revenue’s Online Service (ROS). The relevant details that employers will need to provide to Revenue include current contractual gross pay, pay frequency, normal PRSI class, type of leave the returning employee availed of and the date of return to work. Any retrospective subsidy payments due to impacted employees will be processed by Revenue in due course. This retrospection will apply from 26 March 2020, the date of return to employment or the date the employer was registered for the scheme, whichever is the latest.
645. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 400 of 16 June 2020, if the National Advocacy Service has been contacted by her officials to assist residents of a nursing home (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14444/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, having reviewed the records held by the Restorative Justice Implementation Unit, we have confirmed that there were a number of applicants who were resident in St. Margaret’s nursing home, Donnybrook and all of these residents were linked to the National Advocacy Service when applying to the ex-gratia scheme. However, it is understood that this institution has now closed, and that the residents transferred to other nursing homes, which might include the nursing home mentioned by the Deputy. We do not have any records of applicants to the ex-gratia scheme residing at this location.
In line with the commitment given in response to your previous question (PQ no. 400 16 June 2020) I can confirm that my officials made contact with both the nursing home concerned, and with the National Advocacy Service. Both organisations been appraised of the potential that there may be former residents of Magdalen institutions now residing in this nursing home, and that the Department is keen to ensure that all such residents are provided with access to appropriate advocates to ensure their best interests are represented over the period ahead. I understand that the National Advocacy Service also intends to liaise directly with the nursing home concerned, and officials of my Department remain available to provide any further assistance necessary in relation to this matter.
646. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the implementation of the An Garda Síochána drug-related intimidation reporting programme; and the number of persons by county who have availed of the programme each year since it was launched. [14445/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can assure the Deputy that proactively tackling all forms of drug crime is a priority for An Garda Síochána. The Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) is having significant success in disrupting drug trafficking and the supply of illicit drugs by organised crime groups. Its work is supported by Divisional Drugs Units nationwide, and by all Gardaí working in local communities. It also works closely and productively with international law enforcement partners.
The Deputy will be familiar with the National Drugs Strategy, "Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery - a health led response to drug and alcohol use in Ireland 2017-2025 ". The Strategy is unique among national drugs strategies across EU Member States in recognising the need to address drug-related debt intimidation at a community level.
The Strategy includes an action (4.1.42) which specifically relates to strengthening the effectiveness of the Drug-Related Intimidation Reporting Programme. The programme, which was developed by An Garda Síochána in partnership with the National Family Support Network (NFSN) to respond to the needs of drug users and family members who may be subject to the threat of drug related intimidation, has been implemented on a national level since 2013.
An Garda Síochána regard drug-related intimidation as a hugely serious issue which impacts significantly on communities throughout Ireland. An Garda Síochána advise people to seek help and support from their local Gardaí even where a person has felt compelled to pay money to those who engage in drug related intimidation.
Cases are dealt with in a confidential and secure manner and, insofar as is possible, An Garda Síochána provides practical personal security and safety information and advice in relation to particular threats or instances of intimidation, along with information on appropriate drug support services for any member of a family who is accruing drug debts, while also providing information regarding the process involved in making a formal complaint relating to alleged intimidation.
In line with the Strategy, the GNDOCB has briefed senior Garda managers throughout the country in relation to the most effective handling of suspected incidents of drug-related intimidation and, in particular, the potential role of the programme in this regard.
Seminars are delivered by the GNDOCB and the NFSN to the Garda Inspectors assigned in each division to ensure appropriate implementation of the programme. Attendees at these seminars also include members of Drugs & Alcohol Task Forces as well as Gardaí in local drugs units.
Awareness of the programme is also promoted to all Gardaí and regional management through the GNDOCB and - with the assistance of the NFSN, relevant agencies, Regional and Local Drug & Alcohol Task Forces and community groups - in communities throughout the country.
Information in relation to the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme and a list of the nominated Inspectors countrywide is available on the Garda Síochána Website, www.garda.ie, the National Family Support Network website and the www.Drugs.ie website.
I am informed that, due to the requirement to afford anonymity to participants, it is not the practice to publish data in relation to participation rates.
648. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí by rank attached to K district community policing unit in each of the years 2016 to 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form [14452/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. Further, the allocation of Garda resources is made in light of identified operational demand. This includes deployment of personnel among the various Garda Divisions. As Minister, I have no direct role in the matter. I am assured however that Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use. I understand that 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 each area within the Division and its specific needs.
It is however important to note that community policing is at the heart of An Garda Síochána and that all Gardaí have a role to play in community policing in carrying out their duties. To date, the official categorisation as a Community Garda has simply referred to those who are exclusively assigned to building relationships with local communities and civil society including giving talks to schools, community groups and others.
The area referred to by the Deputy is located within the DMR West Division. The following table, as provided to me by the Garda authorities, sets out the number of Community Gardaí assigned to the DMR West Division by rank for the years requested.
|
Community Gardaí assigned to DMR WEST |
Sergeant |
Garda |
Total |
|
2020 (up to 31 May) |
8 |
69 |
77 |
|
2019 |
7 |
59 |
66 |
|
2018 |
5 |
58 |
63 |
|
2017 |
5 |
59 |
64 |
|
2016 |
5 |
48 |
53 |
The K District refers to the Garda stations located at Blanchardstown, Finglas and Cabra.
The following table sets out the number of Community Gardaí assigned to the K District for the years requested by the Deputy.
|
Community Gardaí assigned to the K District (Cabra, Blanchardstown & Finglas Garda stations) |
Sergeant |
Garda |
Total |
|
2020 (up to 31 May) |
3 |
36 |
39 |
|
2019 |
3 |
33 |
36 |
|
2018 |
3 |
29 |
32 |
|
2017 |
2 |
32 |
34 |
|
2016 |
2 |
25 |
27 |
Further, and as the Deputy will be aware, implementation of this Community Policing Framework takes place in the wider context of implementation of A Policing Service for the Future , the four year implementation plan giving effect to the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland. In its report published in September 2018, the Commission outlined a vision and roadmap for strengthening An Garda Síochána and the broader national framework for policing, security and community safety. The report followed extensive consultations with communities and a wide range of stakeholders over fifteen months.
It is important to note that the Community Policing Framework is being piloted in tandem with the roll-out of An Garda Síochána’s new Operational Model, which meets a key commitment in A Policing Service for the Future. The Garda Operating Model reorganises resources around the delivery of frontline policing, placing an increased emphasis on engaging with communities and supporting victims of crime. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that in each Division, there will be a dedicated Superintendent leading a community engagement team. I am confident that this reorganisation will further strengthen community policing and engagement, and provide a more localised, responsive policing service for each Division nationwide.
In a broader sense, the Deputy might also wish to note that implementation of A Policing Service for the Future will see the Garda Síochána Act 2005 repealed and replaced by a Policing and Community Safety Act. My Department is progressing work on the preparation of a Policing and Community Safety Bill as a matter of priority.
In addition to setting out a new governance and oversight framework for policing, it will redefine the functions of An Garda Síochána to include prevention of harm to those who are vulnerable, place an obligation on relevant state agencies to cooperate with An Garda Síochána in relation to the broader issue of community safety and refine local structures supporting local accountability for policing. In that context, my Department is currently in the process of finalising the most appropriate model to achieve this. All existing structures and approaches to community safety have been considered as part of this work and in line with the recommendation of the Commission on the Future of Policing that community policing and community engagement should be at the heart of new structures and policing arrangements.
As I have indicated to the Deputy, work is well advanced on the preparation of the General Scheme of the Bill. Once it is finalised, I intend to bring it before the Government for approval and publication in the normal manner.
649. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice and Equality her plans to establish a task force similar to the one in Dublin's north inner city in the Dublin metropolitan region northern division. [14459/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraTackling serious crime in the North Dublin region is a priority for myself, my Department and across the whole of government.
The then Taoiseach and my predecessor as Minister previously met with the Garda Commissioner and members of his senior management team in relation to serious crime incidents in the DMR North and the coordinated response mounted by An Garda Síochána to tackle them - including community safety, intelligence and drugs and organised crime. I will continue to be regularly briefed by the Commissioner and senior Gardaí on progress made in relation to various investigations being handled by the Division, as my predecessor was.
Gardaí are undertaking significant activity to counter drug crime at the local level, supporting communities through various preventative and detection initiatives. This includes engagement with Local and Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Forces; the Garda Youth Diversion Programme and Projects; the Garda Schools Programme; the Joint Policing Committees and Community Policing Fora. Debt and debt intimidation are also getting focused attention: the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme, developed by Gardaí and the National Family Support Network, has been in place since 2013 to respond to the needs of drug users and family members experiencing drug related intimidation.
In addition Garda resources in the Division have been increased significantly. I understand from the Garda authorities that there are 804 Gardaí assigned to the DMR North at the end of April 2020, representing a 20% increase compared to the end of 2015. Of these, there are 247 Gardaí assigned to the Coolock District representing a 25% increase compared to the end of 2015. Members in DMR include those assigned to Divisional specialist units such as Drugs and Community Policing. There are now also 62 Garda staff, an increase of 63% in the same time period. Taken together, this increase in the Garda workforce represents a very significant increase in operational policing hours in the DMR North. These Garda members and staff are of course supported and supplemented by personnel from the national and regional units, when required.
In relation to specific issues being experienced by some communities in the Division, l understand that liaison is ongoing with relevant stakeholders, including the Local Authorities, Tusla and the HSE.
Further, as the Deputy may be aware, Dublin City Council is examining the broad needs of the area including the need for a coordinated approach to address specific issues within the area. I understand that this work is ongoing and a report including recommendations is expected in the Autumn. As Minister, I am looking forward to reviewing the report and engaging with any recommendations falling within the remit of the Department.
Finally, I note that a key principle arising from the report of the Commission on the Future of Policing is that policing is not the responsibility of the police alone, but also involves other agencies of Government, such as health or social services, as well as other sectors of society. This principle is at the centre of a new policy on community safety which is being developed in my Department. The policy, which will be given a statutory basis in the new Policing and Community Safety Bill, proposes to establish and support a system of community safety at local level across the country. Through cross-sectoral collaboration, and by drawing on the available services, these systems will be best placed to identify, support and implement, community safety according to the needs of the local community.
651. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the ratio of nurses and general practitioners to prisoners in each prison in February 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14486/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraProvision of safe and secure custody and dignity of care to persons in the penal system in Ireland is a priority for my Department and the Prison Service.
I understand that the prison healthcare service provides prisoners with access to the same range of quality of healthcare services as available under the medical card scheme in the community. The Prison Service Health Care Standards guide the provision of these health services to prisoners, reflecting the prison context and good clinical practice. These Standards have been published and further information is available on the Irish Prison Service website www.irishprisons.ie.
In total, I am informed that the Irish Prison Service currently has 13.6 General Practitioners (WTE) and 141 nurses employed across the prisons estate.
The following table, furnished to me by the Irish Prison Service, sets out the information requested by the Deputy on the ratio of nurses and general practitioners in Irish prisons and represents the position as at 29 February 2020.
It is important to note however that the Irish Prison Service states that the level of healthcare resources assigned to an individual prison is determined by the clinical needs of the population and is not solely based on the number of prisoners in that individual institution.
|
Prison |
Number in Custody |
Nurses |
Ratio Nurses to prisoners |
General Practitioners |
Ratio GPs to Prisoners |
|
Portlaoise |
241 |
8 |
1:30 |
1 |
1:241 |
|
Shelton Abbey |
100 |
2 |
1:50 |
0.23 WTE |
1:435 |
|
Dochas Centre |
148 |
7 |
1:21 |
0.5 |
1:296 |
|
Wheatfield |
536 |
18 |
1:30 |
1 |
1:536 |
|
Arbour Hill |
136 |
6 |
1:23 |
0.26 WTE |
1:523 |
|
Cloverhill |
400 |
18 |
1:22 |
2 |
1:200 |
|
Mountjoy |
704 |
25 |
1:28 |
2.4 |
1:293 |
|
Midlands |
889 |
22 |
1:40 *supported by 5 Health Care Assistants |
3 |
1:296 |
|
Limerick |
266 |
11 |
1:24 |
0.43 WTE |
1:619 |
|
Cork |
327 |
11 |
1:30 |
1 |
1:327 |
|
Castlerea |
323 |
11 |
1:29 |
1 |
1:323 |
|
Loughan House |
135 |
2 |
1:68 |
0.77 WTE |
1:175 |
652. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the ratio of psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and addiction counsellors per prisoner per prison in February 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14487/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraProvision of safe and secure custody and dignity of care to persons in the penal system in Ireland is a priority for my Department and the Prison Service.
I understand that the prison healthcare service provides prisoners with access to the same range of quality of healthcare services as available under the medical card scheme in the community. The Prison Service Health Care Standards guide the provision of these health services to prisoners, reflecting the prison context and good clinical practice. These Standards have been published and further information is available on the Irish Prison Service website www.irishprisons.ie.
Specific attention is also paid to psychology and mental health. I understand that the Prison Service Psychology Service makes up part of the clinical and operational multi-disciplinary team in each prison and provides tailored psychological assessment and intervention services for people in custody. Psychological interventions include both individual and group based approaches, and are provided through a Stepped Model of Care.
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Irish Prison Service and they have in turn requested certain of these details from the Health Service Executive. I will write directly to the Deputy when I receive the information.
|
Prison |
Number in Custody |
Addiction Counsellors |
Ratio Addiction Counsellors to Prisoners |
Psychologists |
Ratio Psychologists to Prisoners |
|
Portlaoise |
241 |
0.54 |
1:446 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 1 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:161 |
|
Shelton Abbey |
100 |
0.8 |
1:125 |
- |
- |
|
Dochas Centre |
148 |
1.08 |
1:137 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist |
0.5:148 |
|
Wheatfield |
536 |
3 |
1:178 |
0.6 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist, 2.6 Grade 2 Psychologist , |
1:191 |
|
Arbour Hill |
136 |
0 *as required minimal demands given prisoner profile |
0.4 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 1.4 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:85 |
|
|
Cloverhill |
400 |
1 |
1:400 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 1 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:178 |
|
Mountjoy |
704 |
5 *facilitates National Drug Treatment Programme also |
1:140 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 3 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:201 |
|
Midlands |
889 |
1.96 |
1:453 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 3 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:254 |
|
Limerick |
266 |
2 |
1:133 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist (vacant - 1 temporary locum Grade 2 psychologist in lieu) |
1:266 |
|
Cork |
327 |
1.72 |
1:190 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 1 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:197 |
|
Castlerea |
323 |
2 |
1:162 |
1 Grade 1 Senior Psychologist 1 Grade 2 Psychologist |
1:215 |
|
Loughan House |
135 |
1 |
1:135 |
- |
- |
|
Prison |
Number in Custody |
Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist |
Ratio Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist |
Forensic Community Psychiatric Nurse |
Ratio Forensic Community Psychiatric Nurse |
Forensic Registrar |
Ratio Forensic Registrar |
Forensic Mental Health Social Worker |
Ratio Forensic Mental Health Social Worker |
|
Portlaoise |
241 |
0.2 WTE |
0.2:241 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Shelton Abbey |
100 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Dochas Centre |
148 |
0.3 + 0.1 WTE |
0.4:148 |
1.0 WTE |
1:148 |
- |
- |
1.0 WTE |
1:148 |
|
Wheatfield |
536 |
0.2 WTE |
0.2:536 |
1 WTE |
1:536 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Arbour Hill |
136 |
0.2 WTE |
0.2:136 |
0.2 WTE |
0.2:136 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Cloverhill |
400 |
1.5 WTE |
1.5:400 |
3 WTE |
1:133 |
2 WTE |
1:200 |
- |
|
|
Mountjoy |
704 |
0.5 + 0.1 WTE |
0.6:704 |
2 WTE |
1:352 |
- |
- |
1.0 WTE |
1:704 |
|
Midlands |
889 |
1 WTE |
1:889 |
2 WTE |
1:445 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Limerick |
266 |
0.1 WTE (HSE not NFMHS) |
0.1:266 |
0.1 WTE |
0.1:266 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
|
Cork |
327 |
0.2 WTE (HSE not NFMHS) |
0.2:327 |
0.6 WTE |
0.6:327 |
- |
- |
0.6 WTE |
0.6:327 |
|
Castlerea |
323 |
1 WTE |
1:323 |
1 WTE |
1:323 |
- |
- |
1.0 WTE (Vacant) |
1:323 (Vacant) |
|
Loughan |
135 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
- |
653. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners on waiting lists to access prison psychology services and addiction services in February 2020; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14488/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraProvision of safe and secure custody and dignity of care to persons in the penal system in Ireland is a priority for my Department and the Prison Service.
I understand that the prison healthcare service provides prisoners with access to the same range of quality of healthcare services as available under the medical card scheme in the community. The Prison Service Health Care Standards guide the provision of these health services to prisoners, reflecting the prison context and good clinical practice. These Standards have been published and further information is available on the Irish Prison Service website www.irishprisons.ie.
Specific attention is also paid to psychology and mental health. I understand that the Prison Service Psychology Service makes up part of the clinical and operational multi-disciplinary team in each prison and provides tailored psychological assessment and intervention services for people in custody. Psychological interventions include both individual and group based approaches, and are provided through a Stepped Model of Care.
I understand that in addition to working with prison operational staff, the Psychology Service work closely with other multi-disciplinary team members to facilitate cohesive and streamlined care for prisoners, including Healthcare (GPs and Nursing Staff), In-reach Psychiatric Services (Consultant Psychiatrists, Registrars and Psychiatric Nurses), Chaplaincy, the Probation Service, Social Workers, Resettlement Officers and Training and Employment Officers as well as Addiction Counselling Services.
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Irish Prison Service. Unfortunately it was not possible to compile it in the timeframe available but I will write directly to the Deputy when I receive the information.
|
REFERRAL |
Number |
|
Triage: Intervention: (includes multiple referrals for different interventions for same individuals) |
433 1,093 |
|
Prison |
Number |
|
|
Cork |
56 |
|
|
Limerick |
25 |
|
|
Midlands |
51 |
|
|
Portlaoise |
46 |
|
|
Mountjoy |
46 |
|
|
Dochas |
26 |
|
|
Loughan House |
5 |
|
|
Shelton Abbey |
0 |
|
|
Cloverhill |
43 |
|
|
Wheatfield |
80 |
|
|
Castlerea |
59 |
|
|
Total |
437 |
