Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 October 2022
42. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice the actions that she has taken and plans to take in response to the substantial shortcomings found on handling of 999 calls; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52404/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAny inappropriate cancellation of 999 calls is a very serious issue which falls significantly below the high standards that the public expect from Gardaí and the high standards that An Garda Síochána set for themselves.
I welcome the publication of the final report by independent expert, Derek Penman which was commissioned by the Policing Authority in July 2021.
The most important thing now is that we consider the report and learn from it so that no person who falls victim to a crime, or finds themselves in any emergency situation, ever has any reason to feel less than 100% confident in contacting the emergency services.
I welcome the apology that has already been made by the Garda Commissioner on this matter and the fact that AGS has accepted the findings of the Report. I am advised by the Garda authorities that an appropriate disciplinary process is being followed in respect of certain aspects of the issues identified.
The Commissioner has further assured me that when someone calls 999 now, they can expect and trust that An Garda Síochána will help. New measures and controls are in place to ensure that callers receive the service they deserve and that call-takers have access to all the supports they need to carry out their challenging roles appropriately. This will continue to be the subject of close attention by Garda management.
