Written Answers Nos. 141-160
141. Deputy Tony McCormack asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí currently based in Offaly; if he can give a breakdown of the stations they are based in; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12706/25]
View answerThe Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to fight crime and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda organisation is central to this policy. The Garda Vote in Budget 2025 saw unprecedented funding of over €2.48 billion for this year, a 27% increase since 2020 which is supporting the continued recruitment of Garda members and staff.
While the Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for the allocation of Garda resources, I look forward to engaging regularly with him to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need. I am informed that when allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan.
I understand that the requirements of all Garda Divisions nationwide are also taken into account, which include:
• Local and national crime trends and workloads;
• Policing arrangements and operational strategies;
• Minimum establishment statistics;
• Local population and trends, geographical area and size;
• Transfer applications, including welfare, personnel issues and concerns.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 31 January 2025, the latest date for which figures are available, there was a total Garda workforce of almost 18,000.
In the interest of transparency, information in relation to the allocation of Gardaí by division, district, and station is publicly available and can be found at the link below. I can also advise the Deputy that I have received the most recent figures for January 2025 from An Garda Síochána which have been published on the website:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd777-an-garda-siochana-your-police-service-some-facts-and-figures/
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are, as of 31 January 2025, 163 Gardaí assigned to Offaly.
Please note that these figures are operational at the time of publication and are subject to change.
142. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Justice the measures he is taking to improve roads policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12784/25]
View answerRoad safety is a shared responsibility. The whole of Government response is led by the Department of Transport and is taken very seriously across Government.
The development and implementation of road traffic legislation and policy, including the Government's Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, and the promotion and advancement of road safety, falls within the remit of my colleague Mr Darragh O'Brien TD, the Minister for Transport. I continue to engage with colleagues across Government to ensure that every effort is made to increase safety on our roads.
An Garda Síochána plays a vital role in enforcing road traffic law and in making our roads safer for all road users, including vulnerable road users.
Road traffic laws are enforced by Gardaí assigned to Roads Policing and as part of the day-to-day duties of uniformed Gardaí nationwide. This includes a programme of high-visibility road safety and enforcement operations carried out in partnership with other state agencies.
Following the Commissioner’s direction, uniform Garda members are now deployed on high visibility roads policing operations, of 30 minutes duration, in each tour of duty. During 2024, 68% of Driving Under the Influence incidents, 63% of all vehicles detained and removed from public roads and 75% of all checkpoints were carried out by frontline, non-roads policing personnel.
Over the recent St. Patrick's bank holiday weekend, An Garda Síochána carried out more than 1,025 Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) checkpoints. Over 4,969 Breath Tests and 190 Oral Fluid Tests were carried out which led to 214 arrests for driving under the influence of an intoxicant.
I am assured by the Commissioner that he is committed to the aim to allocate 150 personnel into roads policing by the end of 2025. An Garda Síochána commenced this allocation with the transfer of 23 Garda members to Roads Policing units during the second half of 2024.
An Garda Síochána is committed to its role in the three pillars of roads safety - Education, Engineering and Enforcement. Every frontline Garda member now has a mobility device, which is essentially a mobile phone that allows them to access a number of specialised Garda apps at the roadside. These include the ability to issue a Fixed Charge Notice, to check a vehicle's insurance status, if a vehicle is taxed and whether a driver is disqualified. These tasks can now be done within moments, without the need to return to the station making much better use of their time. During 2024 An Garda Síochána increased capacity for Roads Policing and implemented many initiatives to reduce road-related deaths and improved safety. An Garda Síochána had increased capacity with:
• deployments of High Performance Unmarked Cars,
• unmarked motorbikes and unmarked Lorry Tractor Cab (Operation Iompair),
• installation of two average and three static safety cameras, with additional average and static safety cameras commencing in Q1 2025,
• additional monitoring hours for Mobile Safety Cameras (GoSafe).
Recently An Garda Síochána has commenced the deployment of Roads Policing Vehicles with a new livery, to once again clearly differentiate between Roads Policing Vehicles and other Frontline vehicles.
This, along with improved technology, additional speed cameras and enhanced data sharing is helping to ensure a multi-faceted approach to road safety enforcement in Ireland.
In the interest of transparency, information in relation to the allocation of Roads Policing by Garda Division is publicly available and can be found at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd777-an-garda-siochana-your-police-service-some-facts-and-figures/
143. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Justice the steps he will take to address high levels of anti-social behaviour, including youth vandalism and assaults, in the Belmayne-Clongriffin area; if he will consider making the Garda Youth Diversion Programme mandatory for at risk youths as currently voluntary engagement excludes those who need it most; if he will give a commitment that all Gardaí, not just juvenile liaison officers, are trained in early intervention and referrals, shifting the focus from arrests to proactive, preventative policing in collaboration with community groups. [12945/25]
View answerThe Government is committed to the principle that everyone, wherever they live in Ireland, should be safe and feel safe. Building safe and secure communities across the country by investing in An Garda Síochána is a top priority in the Programme for Government. We want every part of country to be a safe space for people to live and work in, and to visit, and the Belmayne-Clongriffin area in Dublin is no exception to this.
Anti-social behaviour is a broad term often used to describe a range of actions and behaviours that violate social norms in specific contexts. I am conscious of the very damaging impact on the quality of life it can have in our communities.
The government are committed to tackling the scourge of anti-social behaviour and crime to build safer streets and stronger communities through a number of ongoing measures, including:
• The deployment of body-worn cameras for Gardaí in Dublin City Centre, Waterford, and Limerick in 2024, with nationwide roll-out to follow;
• The introduction of Local Community Safety Partnerships around the country, to develop tailored Community Safety Plans for every area;
• Continued expansion of youth justice and youth diversion measures;
• New laws which criminalise the grooming of children into a life of crime;
• Providing the funding necessary to enhance the equipment available to An Garda Síochána for public order policing, including the deployment of tasers and stronger incapacitant spray;
• Proposing solutions to public order and anti-social “wicked problems” through the Local Leadership Programme which brings together local stakeholders in a structured manner.
A number of actions are contained in the Programme for Government to reduce instances of anti-social behaviour and help people to be safe and feel safe in their local communities, including a commitment to enact legislation to combat anti-social behaviour, including enhancing the use of Anti-Social Behaviour Warnings and Anti-Social Behaviour Orders. Work to progress these commitments has commenced.
There is an ongoing investigation regarding a number of youths who were where recently arrested in relation to a series of assaults and public disorder incidents in the Belmayne, Clongriffin areas, including local train stations.
Local management have temporarily assigned Garda members to focus on recent increases in anti-social activity in the Darndale, Clongriffin and Belmayne areas. This unit will support the work of existing Community Policing Units. This unit has had a number of successes in recent weeks and are continuing to identify youths involved in anti-social behaviour in the areas with the intention of mitigating against such activity and bringing any offenders to justice.
Through the Programme for Government and the Youth Justice Strategy, I am committed to improving outcomes for young people at risk of a life of criminality through investment in youth justice services.
The Youth Justice Strategy 2021 – 2027 commits to expanding the network of Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs). YDPs are community based, multi-agency youth crime prevention initiatives which primarily seek to divert young people who have been, or are at risk of becoming, involved in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour. On average the YDPs engage with between 3,500 and 4,000 young people across the State in any one year.
While the projects primarily receive referrals from An Garda Síochána, they may receive referrals from other sources including schools, parents or self-referrals, including in some cases working with young people who are not under Garda supervision, or have been deemed unsuitable for diversion.
A top priority is the expansion and deepening of the services offered to young people by the YDPs, which are fully funded by the Department of Justice. These projects provide an invaluable support to complement the work of An Garda Síochána in addressing youth crime and protect local communities.
The Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under section 26 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), including the recruitment and training of Garda members and staff.
The Garda National Youth Diversion Bureau has responsibility for the selection, training, support and ongoing liaison with a network of Juvenile Liaison Officers (JLO) in every Garda Community Engagement Area. There are 121 JLOs based throughout the country who are tasked with supporting the Director in the administration, consideration as to suitability, caution, monitoring and implementation of the Diversion Programme. As Minister, I play no role in these independent functions.
The statutory framework relating to young offenders (between the ages of 12 and 18 years of age) and inclusion in the Garda Youth Diversion Programme is set out in the Children Act 2001. The Act provides that where a young person under 18 years of age is responsible for committing a crime, the young person shall be considered for admission to the Youth Diversion Programme. In order for a young person to be admitted to the Programme, the child must take responsibility for their offending behaviour; agree to be cautioned by a Garda; and where appropriate agree to terms of supervision.
Funding for YDPs and other Youth Justice measures have increased substantially in recent years, from €18 million in 2020 to a total allocation of just over €36 million in Budget 2025. There are seven YDPs currently serving Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) North, and the KEEP Youth Diversion Project is currently operating in Belmayne.
144. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice the number of Gardaí currently serving in An Garda Síochána; the projected number eligible for retirement over the next five years; the expected impact on policing capacity; the measures being taken to address recruitment and retention challenges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12859/25]
View answerThe overall Garda workforce, which includes Gardaí, civilian staff and Reserves is almost 18,000. There are currently over 14,150 Garda members across the country, which represents an increase of over 10% since 2015 when there were 12,816 Garda members throughout the country
It is the case that once a Garda has completed 30 years of service they may opt to retire on full pension at age 50 if they joined before 1 April 2004, or at 55 years of age if they joined on or after that date.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a cumulative figure of 1,640 Gardaí will become eligible to retire by 2030. That, of course, does not mean that that number will retire over the next 5 years, only that they will be eligible to do so. For example, a Garda member may have 30 years’ service at age 55, but may not retire for the next 7 years until they reach the mandatory retirement of 62.
In September 2024, the Government increased the age of mandatory retirement age for Gardaí from 60 to 62. This means that Gardaí who wish to work on to 62 may do so. Government took this decision on foot of a request from the Garda Commissioner and the Garda Associations. Since 2020, the Department of Justice has processed almost 185 requests for retirement extensions. It is clear that there is a real appetite for this in An Garda Síochána.
Growing the number of serving Gardaí is a key priority and the Programme for Government includes a commitment to recruiting an additional 5,000 new Garda recruits and additional Garda Staff over the next five years.
Recruitment measures introduced include increasing the maximum age of recruits to 50 and increasing the trainee allowance to €354 per week, while retention measures include increasing the retirement age from 60-62.
The latest Garda Recruitment campaign ran in February and received over 6,700 applications, which is an increase on the 6,300 who applied last year and the 5,000 applications received in 2023. On 10 March 2025, 201 trainees entered the Garda college at Templemore, which follows the attestation of 149 Gardaí on 7 March 2025.
A Recruitment and Training Capacity Group has been established, chaired by my Department, to support the achievement of increased recruitment. The Group will advise me on actions being taking to maximise future intakes and to ensure the 2025 recruitment campaigns can be as successful as possible. The Group will also provide a final report by the summer which I expect will include further measures to support recruitment and retention.
With respect to the provision of policing capacity, the Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for the allocation of Garda resources. I am informed that when allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan.
I understand that the requirements of all Garda Divisions nationwide are also taken into account, which include:
• Local and national crime trends and workloads;
• Policing arrangements and operational strategies;
• Minimum establishment statistics;
• Local population and trends, geographical area and size;
• Transfer applications, including welfare, personnel issues and concerns.
145. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Justice if he will revise the system for coroner’s fees so that the system pertaining to Dublin will be applied nationwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12395/25]
View answerThe Coroner Service comprises a network of coroners located in districts throughout the country. I fully acknowledge the contribution local authorities make, both financial and otherwise, to the provision of the service by coroners. Responsibility for the Coroner Service has been a matter for local authorities since the introduction of the modern coroner system in 1846.Responsibility for the provision of financial and administrative supports to the Dublin District Coroner’s office was transferred from Dublin City Council to my Department in 2018. Legislative change would be required for the funding of the Coroner Service, outside of Dublin, to be removed from the responsibility of local authorities. My predecessor, conducted a wide-ranging consultation to inform the development of proposals for comprehensive reform of the Coroner Service in Ireland.
The consultation provided an opportunity for members of the public and stakeholder groups to express their views, observations and proposals on how the Service might be enhanced into the future.The process included meetings with representatives from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and the County and City Management Association (CCMA) in order to hear their views on a reform of the coroner service.A report on the Public Consultation was published in October last and noted a view from local authorities that the funding of the Coroner Service should be centralised with my Department. The report can be accessed at Report on the Public Consultation on reform of the Coroner Service. In October 2024, Government approval was given to draft a general scheme of a Bill to significantly reform the Coroner Service to increase efficiencies and minimise the impact of the death investigation process on bereaved people. Department officials are currently developing Heads of Bill, with the aim of bringing this before Government in late 2025.
The Heads of Bill will address all aspects of the Coroner Service including:
• Establishing an independent Office of the Chief Coroner, who will be responsible for setting standards, providing guidance and overseeing the activities of full-time salaried coroners, a model in line with best practice internationally.
• Enhancing the support available for families and friends of the bereaved throughout the death investigation process.
• Reforming the current approach for the provision of coroner-directed autopsies, to ensure that families across Ireland have equal access to pathology services and do not experience unnecessary delays.
• Reviewing the number of ‘reportable deaths’ that are required to be reported to a Coroner. Ireland currently reports significantly more deaths than comparable jurisdictions and consequently has cause to investigate many more deaths than might otherwise be required.
• Reviewing how the service is funded.
A restructured and modernised Coroner Service will drive consistency and will assist coroners to better meet the needs of bereaved people, through the provision of enhanced ICT, administrative and family liaison supports.
146. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Justice the resources that are available to an area that is experiencing high levels of violence and intimidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12735/25]
View answerTargeting the work of organised crime groups, who inflict intimidation and violence on families and communities, is a top priority for my Department.
As Minister I want to ensure that people can live in communities which are safe and also where they feel safe.
In the first instance I would say that anyone who is concerned for their safety should contact An Garda Síochána either through their local Garda station or through the Garda confidential line.
Unprecedented funding has been provided to An Garda Síochána which has enabled the Commissioner to assign extra resources to the specialist units involved in tackling organised crime. An Garda Síochána continues to target those involved in street-level drug dealing across the country and also focuses on disrupting and dismantling the drug trafficking networks that impact on our communities and prosecuting those involved at every level through Operation Tara.
A number of key actions have been taken as part of our plan to tackle violent crime. This includes:
• Increasing the maximum sentence for conspiracy to murder from 10 years to life in prison to tackle those who direct gangland and drug related crime;
• Enacting new laws to criminalise the grooming of children into a life of crime;
• Drafting new laws which will provide for the use of facial recognition technology in the investigation of certain drug offences;
• Rolling out a support programme to break the link between the gangs and the children they try to recruit.
I would also add that An Garda Síochána operate the ‘Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme’, which has been developed to respond to the needs of people and family members experiencing drug-related intimidation. The Garda Commissioner has selected a Garda Inspector in every Garda Division to respond to the issue of drug-related intimidation. An Garda Síochána, in dealing with any complaint of drug-related intimidation, will do so with the utmost care in order to afford the person or family, subject to the threat, the best level of security, advice and support which can be offered.
We know we cannot solely police our way out of these situations though and that the best way to tackle the safety issues that communities are facing is through the Gardaí and other state services partnering with the community to implement tailored solutions. The Local Community Safety Partnerships (LCSPs), which will operate at each local authority level, are building upon the good work undertaken through Joint Policing Committees (JPCs).
The objective of the partnerships is to bring the relevant bodies, including the Gardaí, together with communities in a collaborative manner, by focusing on the concerns identified and prioritised by local people. Each newly established LCSP will be required to develop and implement its own tailored community safety plan and will take a strategic approach to their work so that issues arising can be dealt with in a coordinated manner and addressed collectively by relevant service providers in partnership with the community.
The Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024, which is due to commence shortly, also provides for area-based neighbourhood community safety fora to facilitate a tailored, targeted and time-limited approach where issues of concern are arising in a more localised area.
In addition, the Community Safety Fund was established by my Department in 2021 to reinvest the proceeds of crime back into communities through local safety projects aimed at building stronger, safer communities. In Budget 2025, the allocation to the CSF increased to €4 million, a doubling of its initial budget of €2 million in 2022 when the fund was established.
Some of the themes focused on in recent years by successful applicants include projects aimed at addressing anti-social behaviour, domestic violence, drug-related intimidation, safety on public transport, social exclusion, youth programs, prison post-release support and more.
147. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice if he will carry out a review of the impact of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 on the fundraising efforts of voluntary and not-for-profit organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12931/25]
View answerThe Gambling Regulation Act 2024 provided for the establishment of Údarás Rialála Cearrbhachais na hÉireann, the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, for the purposes of licensing and regulating betting, gaming, certain lotteries, the sale or supply of products or services related to gambling and charitable/philanthropic gambling activities.Earlier this month, I signed the order to establish the GRAI on a statutory basis and the order to commence parts of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 to enable the authority to become operational. It is important to note that charities and other not for profit organisations that operate and promote lotteries and other gambling activities, as part of their fundraising model, are already subject to regulation via the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956. The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 continues to regulate such organisations, but does not equate these licensees with commercial gambling operators.
The Act provides for a bespoke licence for not-for profit organisations, such as charities and philanthropic organisations, known as a charitable and philanthropic licence. Section 113 and 119 of the Act are based on provisions in the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956 and provide for this new type of licence, and to allow for once off lotteries (to be operated once every 12 months) for prizes of up to €360,000.
The Act also exempts charitable and philanthropic licensees from the advertisement requirements, so as not to unfairly impede their fundraising efforts.
Therefore, sporting and other not-for-profit organisations will continue to be allowed to advertise fundraising lotteries under the Act. The Act also exempts such organisations from paying an annual contribution to the Social Impact Fund.
Furthermore, Section 92 provides that certain lotteries held for a charitable or philanthropic purpose do not require a gambling licence where:
• The person holding the lottery derives no personal profit from the lottery;
• the total value of the winnings doesn’t exceed €2,000;
• the minimum payment for a lottery ticket does not exceed €5;
• the maximum number of tickets available for sale does not exceed 1,500; and
• the person holding the lottery has not provided a lottery, pursuant to this section, within the past three months.
148. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Justice if he has plans to introduce a specific offence for assaulting a retail worker; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12882/25]
View answerThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to examine the introduction of a specific offence of assaulting a retail worker. The development of legislation is a complex task which requires consideration of all the potential implications of any change to the law. Work to progress the commitments within the Programme has commenced and I look forward to delivering on the Justice agenda contained within the Programme. In December 2023, Garda Operation Táirge commenced. It aims to prevent and detect Organised Retail Crime as part of An Garda Síochána’s Crime Prevention and Reduction Strategy. It is led by the Organised Retail Crime Tasking and Co-ordination Group within An Garda Síochána and supports each Garda region to monitor and respond to emerging trends in their area.
Operation Táirge is supported by a wide range of stakeholder engagement with retailers. The Garda National Crime Prevention (GNCPU) engages with retail stakeholders frequently to assist with various queries and provide assistance. The GNCPU hosts a bi-annual Retail Forum. This Government takes any risk to retailers and their staff very seriously. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment holds a Retail Forum on a quarterly basis with retailers and representative bodies, hosted by the Minister of State with responsibility for Small Businesses and Retail. This provides an opportunity to discuss key issues of importance with key stakeholders in the sector. An Garda Síochána is typically asked to provide an update on retail crime matters at each meeting.
149. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Justice the number of Gardaí currently assigned to stations in Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12614/25]
View answerThe Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to fight crime and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda organisation is central to this policy. The Garda Vote in Budget 2025 saw unprecedented funding of over €2.48 billion for this year, a 27% increase since 2020 which is supporting the continued recruitment of Garda members and staff.
While the Garda Commissioner is operationally responsible for the allocation of Garda resources, I look forward to engaging regularly with him to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need. I am informed that when allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan.
I understand that the requirements of all Garda Divisions nationwide are also taken into account, which include:
• Local and national crime trends and workloads;
• Policing arrangements and operational strategies;
• Minimum establishment statistics;
• Local population and trends, geographical area and size;
• Transfer applications, including welfare, personnel issues and concerns.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 31 January 2025, the latest date for which figures are available, there was a total Garda workforce of almost 18,000.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to the number of Gardaí assigned to the Meath/Westmeath Division by Station up to 31 January 2025 is publicly available and can be found at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/66833-garda-workforce/
I am informed by the Garda authorities that, as of 31 January 2025, there were 547 Gardaí in total assigned to the Meath/Westmeath Division. Of these, 313 Gardaí are assigned to stations across Meath. Please note that this information is operational and subject to change.
150. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Justice the immediate steps he will take to improve the vetting of IPAS applicants; the steps he will take to ensure that any asylum seekers found guilty of a crime will be deported; the steps he is taking to urgently restrict the number of economic migrants being housed by the state in IPAS accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11484/25]
View answerIt is a central priority for me as Minister that our immigration laws are robust and enforced.
An important element of our immigration process centres on establishing a person’s identity and nationality.
When it comes to those entering the international protection process, each person is fingerprinted and photographed. These fingerprints are checked against EURODAC, an EU database which stores the fingerprints of asylum applicants and those who have crossed borders illegally. As part of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact, the existing EURODAC database will be turned into a fully-fledged asylum and migration database, ensuring clear identification of everyone who enters the EU as an asylum seeker or an irregular migrant.
In addition to checks specifically on those applying for international protection, each and every person arriving at a port of entry in the State is subject to Schengen Information System (SIS) checks. Under this system Ireland sends and receives information on persons and objects; for example, persons wanted for criminal purposes, missing persons and objects which have been stolen or are wanted as evidence for a judicial purpose.
Criminal convictions are also considered when processing an international protection application. As part of this, character and conduct checks are carried out before applicants can be granted any permission to remain in the State.
An Garda Síochána notify my Department of matters which may be relevant to its consideration of an international protection application and there is ongoing contact in relation to the relevant individual.
I can assure the Deputy that the removal of persons in the immigration system who are involved in criminality or who are a danger to society is a priority for me. My Department works closely with An Garda Síochána and the Irish Prison Service to ensure the removal of high risk persons with a Deportation Order are prioritised, and effective action taken to ensure the people of Ireland are kept safe.
On my request, my officials are also carrying out a review of the exclusion provisions in the International Protection Act to ensure that these provisions are applied rigorously.
In relation to the number of international protection applications, these have risen over the past number of years with around 18,500 applications received in 2024.
We know that patterns in international protection applications vary over time and that is why it is important that the Government’s response adapts accordingly.
It is my belief that implementing a firmer migration system is a key element in reducing the numbers coming to Ireland to seek international protection.
Accelerated processing was introduced in November 2022 and it now applies to those from designated safe countries of origin, applicants who have received protection elsewhere in Europe and citizens of countries from which there are the largest number of applicants. Applications from countries subject to the accelerated procedure have reduced significantly since their introduction.
It is my intention to continue to ramp up investment in the end-to-end international protection process to speed up decision making. This will support reaching key targets, including making 25,000 decisions in the IPO in 2025 and to increase the number of appeals at the IPAT completed over the course of 2025.
151. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice to provide an update on the previous commitments to deliver domestic violence refuges in each county, including Monaghan and Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12805/25]
View answerOne of the overarching goals of the Zero Tolerance Strategy to address domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV), is ensuring that everyone who needs a refuge space will get one. The Strategy, published in June 2022, includes an ambitious target to double the number of refuge spaces by the end of 2026.
To accelerate the delivery of additional refuge accommodation year on year, Cuan, the DSGBV Agency, was established last year. While currently almost three quarters of the population in the State is within 30 minutes of a refuge location, I am aware of the need to improve on this, and to ensure that services are accessible to everyone living in rural areas. Achieving this, including through the completion of a National Services Development Plan, is a core objective of Cuan’s Corporate Plan 2025-2027, which was published at the end of last year.
A key priority for me and for Cuan is the development of a domestic violence refuge in the Cavan and Monaghan region. Cuan is working with the key stakeholders including Safe Ireland, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Cavan and Monaghan County Councils and the Housing Agency, to progress the development of an eight-unit refuge in this region, which will also include community-facing ancillary support services.
Cuan has worked with Safe Ireland to fund and resource a Project Manager post and a Change Manager post, in addition to supporting the organisation to form the local partnership that is needed to drive the project. I understand that, a site selection process for this refuge started last November and that process is ongoing.
152. Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Justice the measures he will take to make a career in An Garda Síochána more attractive for new recruits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12718/25]
View answerWe can see clearly that there is strong interest in a career in An Garda Síochána. The latest recruitment campaign took place in February and attracted just over 6,700 applicants. This builds on the 5,000 applications which were received in 2023 and the almost 6,400 last year. I understand a second recruitment campaign will be held later this year.
Last week 201 trainee Gardaí entered Templemore, the largest intake since 2019. It is also the first of four intakes for 2025.A number of significant measures have been made to boost recruitment and retention including increasing the Garda trainee allowance to €354 per week, increasing the age of entry from 35 to 50 and increasing the mandatory retirement age to 62. Momentum is continuing to build in the area of recruitment and we can already see the positive effects of these measures.
I will continue to enact legislation and provide resources so that An Garda Síochána can develop the ICT systems and tools to allow them to deliver an effective policing service and to ensure that Gardaí have the best tools at their disposal.
Sustained investment in An Garda Síochána has allowed for the rollout of the proof of concept for body-worn cameras in Waterford, Limerick and Dublin City Centre. Also, all Garda members now have mobile devices with real-time access to apps, eliminating paperwork and allowing Gardaí to carry out their frontline duties far more efficiently. Garda ACTIVE Mobility apps allow members to access their email on the move, check a vehicle’s history and tax status, and enables them to work more efficiently with local business and community groups.
As well as investing in ICT, a number of steps have also been included to improve the protection afforded to Gardaí. It is crucial that Gardaí are safe when they keep our communities safe. These measures include:
• Expansion of public order unit capability through increased training
• Provision of stronger incapacitant spray to all Gardaí
• Provision of smaller round shields to public order units, restraints and additional body armour
• Expansion of the public order fleet, including the procurement of two water cannons
• Increasing the maximum sentence for assaulting a peace officer.
I will also shortly be seeking Government approval to bring forward a Bill which will support greater Garda visibility by reducing the amount of time Garda members have to spend on court-related matters. The Miscellaneous Provisions Bill has the potential to significantly reduce time and resources Gardaí must spend on bringing persons in their custody to the courts, as well as Garda time spent in the court itself. This will free up more Gardaí from administrative roles and get them back on our streets.
153. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Justice his plans to combat anti-social behaviour, including enhancing the use of anti-social behaviour warnings and anti-social behaviour orders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12739/25]
View answerAnti-social behaviour can have a very damaging impact on the quality of life of our communities.
Anti-social behaviour is a broad term often used to describe a range of actions and behaviours that violate social norms in specific contexts.
Legislation allows members of An Garda Síochána to issue Anti-Social Behaviour Warnings to adults and children and allows for senior members of An Garda Síochána to apply for Anti-Social Behaviour Orders before the District Court. A senior member of An Garda Síochána means a member of An Garda Síochána not below the rank of Superintendent.
A number of actions are contained in the Programme for Government to reduce instances of anti-social behaviour and help people to be safe and feel safe in their local communities, including a commitment to enact legislation to combat anti-social behaviour, including enhancing the use of Anti-Social Behaviour Warnings (ASBWs) and Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs). Work to progress these commitments has commenced.
From An Garda Síochána's perspective, a long-term strategic approach to anti-social behaviour in communities assists in addressing potential problems before they arise. Collaboration between An Garda Síochána, Local Authorities, community leaders and groups can facilitate solutions to problems associated with anti-social behaviour. This joint response can incorporate the well-known S.A.R.A. Model (Scan, Analyse, Respond, Assess) which looks to identify and overcome the underlying causes of crime and disorder instead of treating the symptoms.
The government are committed to tackling the scourge of anti-social behaviour and crime to build safer streets and stronger communities through a number of ongoing measures, including:
• The deployment of body-worn cameras for Gardaí in Dublin City Centre, Waterford, and Limerick in 2024, with nationwide roll-out to follow;
• The introduction of Local Community Safety Partnerships around the country, to develop tailored Community Safety Plans for every area;
• Continued expansion of youth justice and youth diversion measures;
• New laws which criminalise the grooming of children into a life of crime;
• Providing the funding necessary to strengthen the equipment available to An Garda Síochána for public order policing, including the deployment of tasers and stronger incapacitant spray;
• Proposing solutions to public order and anti-social “wicked problems” through the Local Leadership Programme which brings together local stakeholders in a structured manner.
154. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Justice the number of Gardaí currently assigned in the Castlerea, Roscommon and Ballinasloe Garda districts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12666/25]
View answerThe Government is committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to fight crime and a strengthened, well-resourced Garda organisation is central to this policy. The Garda Vote in Budget 2025 saw unprecedented funding of over €2.48 billion for this year, a 27% increase since 2020 which is supporting the continued recruitment of Garda members and staff.
While by law the distribution of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, I engage regularly with him to ensure our Gardaí have the resources they need.
When allocating and transferring Garda members to and from any Division, consideration is given to commitments and undertakings outlined in the Annual Policing Plan, population stats, crime trends and ongoing Garda operations.
The Commissioner keeps the allocation of Garda resources under continued review to ensure their optimum use.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that as of 31 January 2025, the latest date for which figures are available, there was a total Garda workforce of almost 18,000 including staff and reserves.
There are 14,167 Garda members across the country which is an increase of around 9% since 2015.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to the number of Gardaí assigned to Castlerea, Roscommon and Ballinasloe up to 31 January 2025 is publicly available and can be found at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/66833-garda-workforce/
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are currently 3 Garda members assigned to Ballinasloe, 10 to Castlerea, and 16 to Roscommon. Please note that this information is operational and subject to change.
155. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Justice the number of graduates he expects to pass out of Templemore this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12373/25]
View answerMy first priority as Minister for Justice is to get more Gardaí out on our streets, including through increased recruitment.
The Programme for Government commits to recruiting 5,000 Gardaí over the next five years. In order to meet that figure, we need to increase the capacity of Templemore and that is something that I as Minister, my officials and the Garda Commissioner are working towards
A Recruitment and Training Capacity Group has been established to support the achievement of increased recruitment. The Group will examine actions to maximise future intakes and to ensure recruitment can be as effective as possible. The Group is due to provide me with a final report by the summer
The number of graduates expected to pass out of Templemore this year is based on three intakes to the Garda College in June, September and December 2024 of 157, 125, and 162 respectively and the March 2025 intake of 201. On that basis, I am advised by the Garda authorities that between 630-640- trainees will attest this year.
Both my Department and An Garda Síochána will work together to ensure the figures for the coming years reflect the commitments of the Programme for Government. Progress is already being made in this regard as evidenced by the March intake of 201 trainee Gardaí to Templemore which was the highest since 2019.
We can see clearly that there is strong interest in a career in An Garda Síochána. The latest recruitment campaign took place in February and attracted just over 6,700 applicants and I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that he plans to run a second competition later this year to ensure a continuous flow of trainees to the College.
156. Deputy Aisling Dempsey asked the Minister for Justice if he will introduce a domestic violence disclosure scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12613/25]
View answerThe Programme for Government commits to working with An Garda Síochána to ensure a person in an intimate relationship can be informed of a serious risk to them where a new partner has a history of domestic violence. I have requested my officials to examine proposals to establish a register or mechanism that would facilitate disclosure of information in respect of an offender’s prior convictions where there is a risk of harm.
Careful consideration is required of the legal and policy implications of how the proposals would work in practice, in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
157. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice if he will legislate to stop the use of counselling notes in sexual assault cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12673/25]
View answerThe disclosure of counselling records is a complex and highly sensitive balancing of individuals' rights. On the one hand, there is the victim’s right to personal privacy and on the other, the accused person’s right to a fair trial.
Because of the risk of re-traumatisation of victims of sexual offences specifically, the law was substantially reformed in 2017 by the insertion of a new section 19A into the Criminal Evidence Act 1992. Section 19A created a new process by which a victim can consent or object to the disclosure of their counselling notes.
In instances where the victim objects to disclosure, the trial judge will decide whether the records should be released; taking into account the right of the victim to privacy and the risk of re-traumatisation, while ensuring the constitutional right of an accused person to a fair trial is upheld and that he or she has access to any material of evidentiary value.
Regrettably, this provision has not operated in practice as intended. Given the importance of the issue of the disclosure of counselling notes to victims and survivors, the Third National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence committed to examining and reviewing the issues again, including a victim/survivor perspective.
I have asked my officials to examine steps, including adjustments to legislation, that could be taken to ensure victims are made aware of their right to object to the disclosure of counselling records and receive appropriate advice in this respect. Any changes to the law must be very carefully considered to avoid the risk of a constitutional challenge on the right to a fair trial. I am aware of concerns expressed by victims and NGO stakeholders and have asked my officials to finalise this work and present proposals quickly.
158. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Justice for an update regarding a domestic violence refuge centre in Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12366/25]
View answer193. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Justice the progress made in the provision of domestic violence refuge centres for the nine counties that are currently without; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12367/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 193 together.
One of the overarching goals of the Zero Tolerance Strategy to address domestic, sexual and gender-based violence (DSGBV), is ensuring that everyone who needs a refuge space will get one. The Strategy, published in June 2022, includes an ambitious target to double the number of refuge spaces by the end of 2026. To accelerate the delivery of additional refuge accommodation year on year, Cuan, the DSGBV Agency, was established last year.
While currently almost three quarters of the population in the State is within 30 minutes of a refuge location, I am aware of the need to improve on this, and to ensure that services are accessible to everyone living in rural areas. Achieving this, including through the completion of a National Services Development Plan, is a core objective of Cuan’s Corporate Plan 2025-2027, which was published at the end of last year.
A key priority for me and for Cuan is the development of a domestic violence refuge in Laois. Cuan funds the Laois Domestic Abuse Service (LDAS) which is a support service for women and children. It delivers services including therapeutic supports, Advocacy, Accompaniment, Children’s Services, and Support and Information regarding options.
I am advised that a new 8-unit purpose-built refuge development is being progressed and LDAS is the lead domestic violence provider engaged in the development. A site has been identified and work is underway on a Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) stage 1 submission.
159. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Justice if he will alter the work permits scheme for healthcare assistants to lower the income thresholds, to allow them bring family members into the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6606/25]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that I recognise the enormous contribution to the Irish health service and Irish society made by Nurses from outside the EU. I also understand that people are eager to have their families join them in Ireland.
The issuing of employment permits, and the setting of relevant salary thresholds, is a matter for the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment who seek to ensure that workers are employed at a sustainable earnings level.
A review of the Department of Justice Policy Document for Non-EEA Family Reunification, which was last amended in 2016, is examining a wide range of matters relating to applications for family reunification, including the nature and suitability of current income thresholds and waiting periods. My Department has consulted with a wide variety of stakeholders and the expectation is that the review will be brought to a conclusion in the coming months.
While I fully understand that people moving to Ireland to live and work would wish to have their family join them, the issues to be examined as part of a family reunification application are complex. An important consideration in all family reunification applications, for example, is the ability of the sponsor to demonstrate a clear capacity to provide for their family member or members if they are to be granted a permission to come to Ireland.
I can also advise that, with effect from 15 May 2024, the first stage of the review was implemented in that eligible spouses and partners of General Employment Permit and Intra-Corporate Transfer Irish Employment Permit holders, who have applied for and been granted family reunification, in accordance with the Non-EEA Family Reunification Policy, are now registered on a Stamp 1G permission, rather than a Stamp 3. This allows the holder to take up employment without the need to obtain a separate Employment Permit of their own.
160. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Justice for an update on the efforts to source a new courthouse for Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12715/25]
View answerThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to support and enhance the Courts Service Capital Programme for new builds and refurbishments. I am advised that Galway Courthouse will be included in a submission being prepared by the Courts Service for a revised NDP, which is being developed as part of the Programme for Government.
I am further informed that the Courts Service has engaged with the Land Development Agency (LDA) and Galway City Council (GCC) to explore the potential of including a new courthouse in the future development on the Dyke Road. High-level design options are being considered to assess the suitability of this venue.
More recently, the Courts Service has engaged in discussions with Galway County Council about an alternative site, with the County Hall carpark identified as a potential location. This presents an opportunity for collaboration with Galway County Council, leveraging the two-acre-site for shared use.
Both site options offer significant potential for developing a modern, purpose-built courthouse in Galway.
