Richard Boyd Barrett
Ceist:11. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Taoiseach if he will establish a Cabinet Committee on Housing. [32518/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraCabinet Committees
Ceisteanna (11)
Freagraí scríofa
As I indicated to the House last week, the Government has agreed to streamline the Cabinet Committee structure and approved the establishment of five committees. One of these, Cabinet Committee D, will cover housing, climate action, infrastructure investment and delivery, and the National Planning Framework. Among other issues, this Committee will provide political oversight of our efforts to address the housing and homelessness crisis and our transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.
Providing affordable, quality and accessible housing is a priority in the Programme for a Partnership Government. The previously constituted Cabinet Committee on Housing met regularly to oversee development and then implementation of the Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness. On 14 June, I outlined to the House my view that while Rebuilding Ireland is working, it may not be enough. I tasked Minister Murphy to review the Plan within three months and to consider what additional measures may be required. That review has started, while work continues on implementing the Actions already in the Plan.
Questions Nos. 12 to 15, inclusive, resubmitted.
Seanad Reform
Ceisteanna (16, 17)
Micheál Martin
Ceist:16. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if he will report on Seanad reform. [32473/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraMicheál Martin
Ceist:17. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the position regarding the commitment in the programme for Government regarding Seanad Éireann reform. [33013/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 17 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, in the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Government stated its commitment to pursuing the implementation of the Report of the Working Group on Seanad Reform (the Manning Report).
That Report was published in 2015 and it is available on my Department's website.
One of the recommendations of the Report was the establishment of an Implementation Group to oversee implementation of the reforms contained in the Report.
As my predecessor previously said in the House, he agreed with a suggestion made here some time ago by Deputy Martin that this Group should be based in the Oireachtas and should comprise members of the Dáil and Seanad from all parties and groups, with access to independent expert advice as required. He wrote to Party Leaders in September last year seeking their agreement to this approach and their intention to participate. Contacts are continuing with parties to finalise nominations with a view to having the Group up and running as soon as possible.
Questions Nos. 18 and 19 resubmitted.
Ministerial Meetings
Ceisteanna (20)
Eamon Ryan
Ceist:20. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Taoiseach if during the recent European Council meeting he asked the Greek Prime Minister the position regarding securing European monitoring of a case (details supplied). [32515/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I saw the Greek Prime Minister in the margins of the meeting of the European Council in Brussels on 22/23 June. I took the opportunity to give him a copy of the letter from the Minister of Foreign Affairs to his Greek counterpart, regarding monitoring of the case. I can assure the Deputy that the Government remains committed to doing all that it can to secure the earliest possible return of Ibrahim Halawa to Ireland.
Cabinet Committees
Ceisteanna (21)
Richard Boyd Barrett
Ceist:21. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Taoiseach if he will establish a Cabinet Committee on Education. [32519/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Government recently approved the establishment of five new Cabinet Committees.
As part of these changes Cabinet Committee B will now cover Social Policy and Public Services including Education, Children, Equality, Social Inclusion, Justice, Arts, Irish and the Gaeltacht, and Public and Civil Service Reform. Membership of the Committee has been changed accordingly to reflect these changes.
Questions Nos. 22 and 23 resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 24 to 31, inclusive, answered orally.
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (32)
Anne Rabbitte
Ceist:32. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in County Galway as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32859/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Galway Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 9 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Galway Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information, I have set out below in tabular form the number of Gardaí assigned to the Galway Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as provided by the Commissioner.
GALWAY DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
- |
||
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
BALLINASLOE |
AHASCRAGH |
1 |
|
BALLINASLOE |
40 |
|
|
BALLYGAR |
1 |
|
|
CREGGS |
1 |
|
|
MOUNT BELLEW |
7 |
|
|
MOYLOUGH |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
51 |
|
|
CLIFDEN |
AN MÁM |
2 |
|
CARNA |
1 |
|
|
CLIFDEN |
32 |
|
|
CLOCH NA RÓN |
1 |
|
|
LETTERFRACK |
1 |
|
|
SRAITH SALACH |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
38 |
|
|
GALWAY |
ATHENRY |
3 |
|
GAILLIMH |
214 |
|
|
LOUGH GEORGE |
2 |
|
|
MONIVEA |
1 |
|
|
ÓRÁN MÓR |
41 |
|
|
TOTAL |
261 |
|
|
LOUGHREA |
CRAUGHWELL |
4 |
|
EYRECOURT |
1 |
|
|
GORT |
28 |
|
|
KILLIMOR |
1 |
|
|
KILRICKLE |
1 |
|
|
KINVARA |
2 |
|
|
LOUGHREA |
36 |
|
|
PORTUMNA |
7 |
|
|
WOODFORD |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
81 |
|
|
SALTHILL |
AN CHEATHRÚ RUA |
5 |
|
AN SPIDÉAL |
2 |
|
|
CILL RÓNÁIN |
4 |
|
|
INDREABHÁN |
1 |
|
|
LEITIR MÓIR |
1 |
|
|
MAIGH CUILINN |
1 |
|
|
ROS MUC |
1 |
|
|
SALTHILL |
53 |
|
|
UACHTARARD |
3 |
|
|
TOTAL |
71 |
|
|
TUAM |
BARNADERG |
1 |
|
DUNMORE |
6 |
|
|
GLENAMADDY |
1 |
|
|
HEADFORD |
3 |
|
|
MILLTOWN |
1 |
|
|
TUAM |
56 |
|
|
WILLIAMSTOWN |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
69 |
|
|
GALWAY TOTAL |
571 |
Questions Nos. 33 and 34 answered orally.
Child Protection
Ceisteanna (35)
Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire
Ceist:35. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the actions being taken within his Department to ensure child protection is a priority when it comes to education of children and families regarding safe Internet usage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31222/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department seeks to promote awareness of internet safety and to highlight its importance for parents, children and young people alike. The Office for Internet Safety (OIS) was established in my Department in 2008. As a small unit, it aims to build linkages and cohesion between relevant Departments and agencies to promote internet safety, particularly in relation to combating child pornography. A dedicated website www.internetsafety.ie provides information primarily aimed at parents as well as links to a variety of other resources on internet safety. In addition, the unit provides a series of information booklets on internet safety which are made available on the website and also in hard copy.
An Internet Safety Advisory Committee (ISAC) advises the OIS and includes representatives from An Garda Síochána, academia, relevant non-government organisations, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner as well as industry etc. At a European level, the website www.betterinternetforkids.eu gathers and makes available best practice examples, including some from Ireland, on safer internet for children and makes them available in a variety of languages.
The EU Safer Internet Programme for Ireland operates through my Department, channelling EU funding to four partner bodies:
- Webwise in Professional Development Service for Teachers Technology in Education (a part of the Department of Education and Skills) - this programme raises awareness of online safety issues and promotes good practice among students, their parents and teachers.
- Childline - a helpline and other services for children and operated by the ISPCC.
- the National Parents Council (Primary) which operates a helpline and provides training for parents and
- Hotline.ie which deals with reports of illegal content on the internet in Ireland.
My Department also keeps the criminal law up to date in this area as required. For example, the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, has addressed criminal law aspects of the Law Reform Commission’s Report on Harmful Communications and Digital Safety, including a number of measures to significantly strengthen existing criminal law in combating child exploitation - in particular to address the use of modern communication technologies as a tool which may lead to child sexual exploitation.
An Garda Síochána has an arrangement in place with a large internet service provider to block access to child sexual abuse content in accordance with a list they provide. Among the aims of this initiative is to reduce inadvertent viewing by members of the public, including children, of this illegal and/or harmful material. An Garda Síochána also has a Schools Programme where personal safety issues, including online safety, are highlighted and discussed with children and young people in schools.
Finally, my Department works with other relevant Government Departments in this area. As the Deputy may be aware, the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment has the lead role in terms of the National Cyber Security Strategy and is also considering the Law Reform Commission's recommendation for the establishment of a Digital Safety Commissioner.
Questions Nos. 36 and 37 answered orally.
Garda Resources
Ceisteanna (38)
Bernard Durkan
Ceist:38. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which adequate numbers of gardaí are in training at Templemore with particular reference to the need to increase Garda strength at the various stations throughout the country and with reference to those areas deemed to have experienced greatest reductions during the economic downturn; the targets to increase Garda strength over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32966/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 2,400 new Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next three years in addition to the 2,000 recruits that will have been recruited by the end of this year since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014.
In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves. I am engaging with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, in relation to ensuring funding is available to allow sufficient recruitment into An Garda Síochána in 2018 and the coming years so that the planned overall Garda workforce of 21,000 is achieved.
The workforce plan is progressing apace. So far this year, there have been two intakes to the Garda College of two hundred trainees in February and May with a further two intakes of 200 planned for August and November giving a total intake of 800. It is expected that the planned schedule of intakes will continue into 2018. Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. In addition to this, a further 800 Garda trainees are expected to attest in 2018.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across the organisation.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.
In so far as the allocation of newly attested Gardaí is concerned, I am assured by the Commissioner that the needs of all Garda Divisions are fully considered when determining the allocation of resources. However, it is important to keep in mind that newly attested Gardaí have a further 16 months of practical and class-room based training to complete in order to receive their BA in Applied Policing. To ensure that they are properly supported and supervised and have opportunities to gain the breadth of policing experience required, the Commissioner's policy is to allocate them to specially designated training stations which have the required training and development structures and resources in place, including trained Garda tutors and access to a permanently appointed supervisory Sergeant who is thoroughly familiar with their responsibilities under the training programme.
Garda Accommodation
Ceisteanna (39)
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:39. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the capital investment that is being made in Garda facilities in Tubbercurry. [32842/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.
The Garda Station Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is an ambitious 5 year Programme, based on agreed Garda priorities, that will benefit over thirty locations around the country. It includes over €60million of Exchequer funding as part of Government’s Capital Plan 2016 – 2021 as well as a major Public Private Partnership project.
The Programme does not include provision for Tubbercurry Garda station. However, I am informed that, in late 2016, An Garda Síochána requested the OPW to carry out an assessment of works required to provide additional accommodation and facilities at the station.
I understand that An Garda Síochana continues to engage with the OPW to consider the full detail of the OPW’s assessment with a view to identifying the priority works that could be undertaken to enhance the facilities of the station.
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (40)
Declan Breathnach
Ceist:40. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in County Louth as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32870/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September to 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Louth Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 59 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Louth Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information, I have set out in tabular form the number of Gardaí assigned to the Louth Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as provided by the Commissioner.
|
- |
LOUTH DIVISION 31 MAY 2017 |
|
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
ARDEE |
ARDEE |
25 |
|
CASTLEBELLINGHAM |
2 |
|
|
COLLON |
5 |
|
|
LOUTH |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
33 |
|
|
DROGHEDA |
CLOUGHERHEAD |
3 |
|
DROGHEDA |
98 |
|
|
DUNLEER |
6 |
|
|
TOTAL |
107 |
|
|
DUNDALK |
BLACKROCK |
4 |
|
CARLINGFORD |
4 |
|
|
DRUMAD |
7 |
|
|
DUNDALK |
136 |
|
|
HACKBALLSCROSS |
4 |
|
|
OMEATH |
3 |
|
|
TOTAL |
158 |
|
|
LOUTH DIVISION TOTAL |
298 |
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (41)
Eugene Murphy
Ceist:41. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in counties Longford and Roscommon as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32879/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Roscommon/Longford Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 5 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Roscommon/Longford Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information, I have set out in tabular form the number of Gardaí assigned to the Roscommon/Longford Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as provided by the Commissioner.
ROSCOMMON/LONGFORD DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
DISTRICT |
DIVISION |
TOTAL |
|
CASTLEREA |
BALLAGHADERREEN |
10 |
|
BALLINLOUGH |
2 |
|
|
BOYLE |
26 |
|
|
CASTLEREA |
38 |
|
|
ELPHIN |
2 |
|
|
FRENCHPARK |
2 |
|
|
KEADUE |
1 |
|
|
ROOSKY |
3 |
|
|
STROKESTOWN |
5 |
|
|
TULSK |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
91 |
|
|
GRANARD |
DRUMLISH |
2 |
|
EDGEWORTHSTOWN |
11 |
|
|
GRANARD |
33 |
|
|
SMEAR |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
47 |
|
|
LONGFORD |
BALLYMAHON |
10 |
|
KENAGH |
1 |
|
|
LANESBORO |
6 |
|
|
LONGFORD |
70 |
|
|
TOTAL |
87 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON |
ATHLEAGUE |
1 |
|
CLONARK |
6 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON |
71 |
|
|
TOTAL |
78 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD TOTAL |
303 |
Migrant Integration
Ceisteanna (42)
Jonathan O'Brien
Ceist:42. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will establish a time bound scheme with transparent criteria to regularise the position of undocumented migrants here. [32687/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
There are no plans to introduce a general regularisation scheme for those who are currently illegally in the State. Any such proposal could give rise to very large, unpredictable and potentially very costly impacts across the full range of public and social services, particularly as there may well be significant implications for the operation of the Common Travel Area, in the context of Britain withdrawing from the European Union. Any proposal in this regard would have to be very carefully considered.
In addition, at the European level, Ireland together with the other Member States of the European Union has committed under the European Pact on Immigration and Asylum agreed at the European Council in October 2008 "to use only case-by-case regularisation, rather than generalised regularisation, under national law, for humanitarian or economic reasons". While the Pact is not legally binding, the political commitment among Member States, then and now, is clearly against any form of process that would in any way legitimise the status of those unlawfully present without first examining the merits of their individual cases.
Ireland operates a very open immigration policy with many legal pathways open to non-EEA nationals to legally enter and reside in the State. The Deputy will appreciate that, in most cases, a person becomes undocumented through their own actions either by entering the state illegally in the first place or by deciding not to leave the State when they no longer have a valid immigration permission. Such persons are always free to present their case, on its own merits, to the immigration authorities and it is reasonable for the State to expect that the persons concerned would respect the final decision.
I will, of course, give proper consideration to the Report on Immigration, Asylum and the Refugee Crisis published by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice and Equality on 29 June 2017. In particular I will examine if elements of the recommendations can be acted upon, having regard to our international commitments and the domestic implications that any general amnesty or regularisation might entail.
The Deputy may also wish to note that the Economic and Research Institute (ESRI) recently published a study on the illegal employment of non-EEA nationals. It is important to stress that the study examined the situation of both those who had no immigration permission to be in the State and those who were working in breach of an immigration permission which might exclude or limit their access to the labour market. The ESRI concluded that there was no reliable data on the numbers of persons undocumented or illegally employed in Ireland. They did, however, identify certain characteristics of this group and concluded that the areas at high risk of illegal employment and being undocumented, include; the catering sector (such as takeaway, fast food and ethnic restaurants) and those working in the private home involved in child and elder care. The report also points to the enforcement work of the Workplace Relations Commission and the Garda National Immigration Bureau with particular focus on employers who engage in employing and potentially exploiting illegal workers.
Commercial Rates
Ceisteanna (43)
Robert Troy
Ceist:43. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce new legislation regarding commercial rates valuations; and when this bill will be enacted. [33016/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, there is a distinct separation of function between the valuation of rateable property, which is the responsibility of the Commissioner of Valuation, and the setting and collection of commercial rates, which is a product of the valuation set by the Commissioner, multiplied by the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) decided annually by the elected members of each local authority. The Commissioner of Valuation is currently under the aegis of my Department but operates independently in carrying out his statutory functions under the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015 and my Department has no role in this regard.
It is worth noting that the annual setting of the ARV is a reserved function of the elected members of each Local Authority and neither the Commissioner of Valuation nor central Government have any function in that regard.
In so far as legislation relating to the valuation of properties for rating purposes is concerned, there is a modern, up to date code of legislation in place. The entire body of Valuation Acts dating from the 19th Century was repealed, modernised and consolidated when the Valuation Act 2001 came into force on 2 May 2002. A number of improvements to the 2001 Act mainly in relation to accelerating the National Revaluation Programme were introduced by the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015 which was commenced on 8 June 2015. Accordingly, my Department has no plans at this time to introduce new legislation in relation to the valuation of property for commercial rates purposes.
Local authorities are under a statutory obligation to levy rates on any property used for commercial purposes in accordance with the details entered in the valuation lists prepared by the independent Commissioner of Valuation under the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015. The levying and collection of rates are matters for each individual local authority.
Commercial rates (which fall under the auspices of my colleague, the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government) form an important element of the funding of all local authorities. I understand, however, that the legislative basis for the levying of rates is spread over a number of enactments, some dating back to the 19th Century. Many of the provisions are outdated and not suited to current business practise. I am advised that the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government has developed legislative proposals to modernise and consolidate the legislation governing commercial rates and the Government recently approved the drafting of a Rates Bill in this regard.
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (44)
John Brassil
Ceist:44. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in County Kerry as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32854/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Kerry Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 20 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Kerry Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information, I have set out in tabular form the number of Gardaí assigned to the Kerry Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as provided by the Commissioner.
KERRY DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
KILLARNEY |
CAHERCIVEEN |
17 |
|
GLENBEIGH |
1 |
|
|
KENMARE |
11 |
|
|
KILLARNEY |
58 |
|
|
KILLORGLIN |
13 |
|
|
PORTMAGEE |
1 |
|
|
SNEEM |
1 |
|
|
WATERVILLE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
103 |
|
|
LISTOWEL |
BALLYBUNION |
8 |
|
BALLYHEIGUE |
1 |
|
|
KNOCKNAGOSHALL |
1 |
|
|
LISTOWEL |
42 |
|
|
LIXNAW |
1 |
|
|
TARBERT |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
55 |
|
|
TRALEE |
AN DAINGEAN |
9 |
|
ANNASCAUL |
1 |
|
|
ARDFERT |
2 |
|
|
BAILE AN FHEIRTÉARAIG |
1 |
|
|
CASTLEGREGORY |
2 |
|
|
CASTLEISLAND |
30 |
|
|
CASTLEMAINE |
1 |
|
|
FARRANFORE |
2 |
|
|
TRALEE |
103 |
|
|
TOTAL |
151 |
|
|
KERRY TOTAL |
309 |
Tribunals of Inquiry
Ceisteanna (45)
Mick Wallace
Ceist:45. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the unit set up within An Garda Síochána to liaise with the disclosures tribunal, in view of reports of personal ties between the Garda Commissioner and members of the unit and questions raised both in the media and in Dáil Éireann over a potential conflict of interest in this regard and that the Commissioner is being investigated as part the tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32752/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
First of all let me say for the benefit of the Deputy that the Disclosures Tribunal was appointed following the passing of Resolutions by this House and Seanad Éireann on 16 February 2017. Those resolutions require the Tribunal to report to the Clerk of Dáil Éireann with its findings and recommendations. Therefore, I do not propose to say or do anything which could be interpreted as impinging on its independence.
Furthermore, I would also remind the House that the sole member, Mr Justice Peter Charleton, has indicated that the Tribunal has issued orders for the discovery of documents and other records. In those circumstances, it is incumbent on anyone who is a party before the Tribunal to cooperate fully with it.
The Garda Commissioner has statutory responsibility to carry on and manage and control generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána. Accordingly, the putting in place of internal structures to service the Tribunal is a matter for the Commissioner and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Similarly, the selection of personnel to support those structures is a matter for the Commissioner. I do not believe that it would be proper for me as Minister to prescribe the approach which is taken by An Garda Síochána towards the Tribunal. I would be open to criticism if I were to seek to influence how An Garda Síochána fulfil their duties to the Tribunal. On this point, I would say that matters relating to representation before the Tribunal will ultimately be decided by the Tribunal itself. In light of these factors it would not be appropriate to comment on the arrangements which have been made by An Garda Síochána or, indeed, any other parties in relation to their engagement with the Tribunal.
On a general note I would like to reiterate that the Government has, rightly, been anxious to ensure that the Disclosures Tribunal receives the greatest degree of assistance possible from all parties, not least An Garda Síochána. It has been supportive of the Commissioner in ensuring that she has the resources at her disposal to service the Tribunal in a timely and effective manner, so that it in turn may proceed with and complete its work without delay. I am advised that the services of two former members of An Garda Síochána (a former Chief Superintendent and a former Assistant Commissioner) have been engaged for a period of six months to 31 August 2017. My Department was not consulted nor should it have been in relation to the selection of the particular individuals concerned.
The work of the two retired members supports the Disclosure Tribunal Co-Ordination Office based in Garda Headquarters which is staffed by one full-time member, seconded temporarily from the Office of Corporate Communications. A number of additional personnel are facilitating the work of this office on an ad hoc basis as requirements dictate. I am further informed that liaison persons have been nominated from relevant sections/Regions to deal with specific requests from the Tribunal.
It should be understood that the provision of these additional resources is to ensure that An Garda Síochána as an organisation is able to cooperate with the Tribunal to the fullest extent, without unduly affecting the ability of the organisation to continue to carry out its normal vital work. That said, there is nothing in the arrangements put in place by the Commissioner to prevent, nor could they, the right of any individual member of An Garda Síochána to make any representations they see fit, relevant to its terms of reference, to the Tribunal.
Finally, as the Deputy will be aware, the Tribunal has commenced public hearings and I repeat that it is important that everyone should allow the Tribunal to get on, unimpeded, with the very important work with which it has been tasked.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (46)
Ruth Coppinger
Ceist:46. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the funding of a second sexual abuse and violence in Ireland report. [32975/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
A second Sexual Assault and Violence in Ireland study (SAVI 2) would show the prevalence of and attitudes to sexual violence and elucidate how the experience has changed since SAVI 1. The overall cost of a report is likely to be in the order of €1 million over three years. A formal proposal submitted by the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre recognised that, given the significant budget, funding would be divided between four Departments - the Departments of Justice and Equality, Children and Youth Affairs, Education and Skills, and Health. My predecessor wrote to the relevant Ministers on this matter and expressed her support for the project. The responses received make the viability of funding the project, as proposed, unlikely.
However, my Department continues to investigate the financial feasibility, resource implications and approaches to identifying a ring-fenced funding stream for undertaking a SAVI 2 study and to explore obligations with regard to requisite public procurement arrangements. While I strongly recognise the value of further research in this area, I am sure the Deputy will accept that the right balance must be struck between the funding of front-line services and funding research. I will, however, continue to pursue this matter.
In the meantime, there are other sources of statistics that can be accessed. The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) 2014 pan-European survey report on violence against women provides details of the prevalence of sexual violence by a partner or non-partner experienced by those women surveyed who are resident in Ireland. This data source has the advantage of providing the possibility of data comparisons with each of the other 27 member states of the EU. Discussions have begun at a Eurostat level to explore the possibility of some form of replication of the FRA survey. There is also the June 2016 pan-European Eurobarometer survey on perceptions, attitudes and awareness of gender-based violence. Figures on sexual violence in Ireland are also available from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, the Rape Crisis Network Ireland, the Central Statistics Office / An Garda Síochána, the Courts Service and Sexual Assault Treatment Units.
In addition, the Central Statistics Office are to explore the feasibility of including a module on sexual violence in its next roll-out of its crime and victimisation survey. If it becomes an ongoing element of data gathering in CSO’s crime and victimisation survey, the information gleaned from this work will provide indications of trends over time of peoples’ experiences of such violence.
Crime Prevention
Ceisteanna (47)
Thomas Byrne
Ceist:47. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of proposals to install cameras on motorways to help fight against crime. [32674/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to supporting investment in CCTV systems at key locations along the road network and in urban centres.
In this context, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that, on 13 April 2017 in pursuance of this commitment, a new Community-based CCTV grant-aid Scheme was launched by my Department to assist groups in the establishment of community-based CCTV systems in their local areas.
Under the Scheme, which is being administered by my Department, eligible community groups can apply for grant-aid of up to 60% of the total capital cost of a proposed CCTV system, up to a maximum grant of €40,000. Upon approval of the grant, the applicant will receive an up-front payment of 50% of the grant with the balance to be paid when the system is fully operational.
Full details of the grant aid package including guidelines, application forms, code of practice and other relevant documentation are all available to download from my Department's website - www.justice.ie.
I am very conscious of the value that communities, especially rural communities, place on CCTV as a means of deterring crime and assisting in the detection of offenders and I would encourage interested groups to avail of the Scheme.
In addition, the Garda authorities inform me that, as of 5 March 2017, there are some 35 Garda CCTV schemes in operation throughout the State comprising in excess of 500 cameras. There are also some 45 Community-based CCTV schemes, established under the previous grant-aid scheme funded by my Department between 2005 and 2013, in operation encompassing some 367 cameras to which An Garda Síochána have access.
Under the Commissioner's Modernisation and Renewal Programme, the intention is to use CCTV in new ways utilising modern technology and to expand the use of ANPR technology to allow for wider access and analysis, to identify key criminal and terrorist targets and to enhance community safety.
This is underpinned by significant Government investment under the Capital Plan of some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million to provide An Garda Síochána with additional high-powered vehicles, marked and unmarked patrol cars, and motorcycles to ensure that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.
Garda Resources
Ceisteanna (48)
John Lahart
Ceist:48. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to provide additional Garda resources in the Dublin metropolitan region southern Garda division. [32886/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) South Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 96 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the DMR South Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information, I have set out in the table, as provided by the Commissioner, the number of Garda assigned to the DMR South Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available.
D.M.R. SOUTH DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
CRUMLIN |
CRUMLIN |
99 |
|
SUNDRIVE ROAD |
61 |
|
|
TOTAL: |
160 |
|
|
TALLAGHT |
RATHFARNHAM |
60 |
|
TALLAGHT |
182 |
|
|
TOTAL: |
242 |
|
|
TERENURE |
RATHMINES |
62 |
|
TERENURE |
81 |
|
|
TOTAL: |
143 |
|
|
D.M.R. SOUTH TOTAL |
545 |
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (49)
Mary Butler
Ceist:49. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in County Waterford as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32847/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Waterford Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 39 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Waterford Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information I have set out in the table, as provided by the Commissioner, the number of Gardaí assigned to the Waterford Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available.
WATERFORD DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
DUNGARVAN |
AGLISH |
1 |
|
ARDMORE |
1 |
|
|
BALLYMACARBERRY |
1 |
|
|
CAPPOQUIN |
2 |
|
|
DUNGARVAN |
41 |
|
|
LISMORE |
3 |
|
|
TALLOW |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
51 |
|
|
TRAMORE |
KILMACTHOMAS |
10 |
|
TRAMORE |
37 |
|
|
TOTAL |
47 |
|
|
WATERFORD |
DUNMORE EAST |
2 |
|
FERRYBANK |
4 |
|
|
PASSAGE EAST |
1 |
|
|
WATERFORD |
172 |
|
|
TOTAL |
179 |
|
|
WATERFORD TOTAL |
277 |
Garda Equipment
Ceisteanna (50)
Jim O'Callaghan
Ceist:50. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to fit members of An Garda Síochána with body cameras to record their daily duties. [32889/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Deputy will appreciate that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the provision of equipment for An Garda Síochána and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.
I understand from the Garda authorities that in June 2012, fifteen body worn cameras were procured with the purpose of carrying out a technical evaluation of the technology and to evaluate a body worn system which would provide an alternative to the use of video camcorders. These units were intermittently used by the Specialist Training School in the Garda College as part of Garda training courses.
I have been informed that a working group within An Garda Síochána is currently examining the options available on the market regarding body worn cameras, with a view to developing a business case in the event that it is decided to recommend the general use of body worn cameras by members of An Garda Síochána.
Crime Investigation
Ceisteanna (51)
Maureen O'Sullivan
Ceist:51. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the extent of intimidation of families and young persons in respect of drug dealing and drug debt, particularly in Dublin; the way in which this can be dealt with; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32681/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The drug related intimidation brought to bear against members of the community, and often our most vulnerable communities, is a serious challenge which I am determined that our criminal justice system should address. Community Policing initiatives and building trust with communities are integral to successfully tackling this issue. The Garda National Drugs Unit and the National Family Support Network developed "the Drug Related Intimidation Reporting Programme" to respond to the needs of drug users and family members experiencing drug related intimidation as laid out in the Government’s National Drugs Strategy.
Work is well underway in regards to a comprehensive and integrated new National Drugs Strategy for the period post 2016 and An Garda Síochána remains resolute in its determination to act against those within society who pose a significant threat to the welfare and well-being of our citizens and the communities it serves. The continued disruption of the supply of all illicit drugs remains a priority for all agencies tasked with responsibilities in this regard.
As things stand, an Inspector has been selected in every Garda Division to respond to the issue of drug related intimidation. These Inspectors are of Management level within An Garda Síochána and liaise directly with their local Superintendent in relation to each individual case. Persons seeking the assistance of the Inspector in their area may contact their Inspector to arrange to meet with them either formally or informally. It is also possible for a person to ask a local family support worker or drugs worker to contact the Garda Inspector for their area or ask the National Family Support Network to contact the relevant Inspector. If anyone experiences difficulty contacting the relevant Garda Inspector they can contact the Project Office at the Garda National Drugs Unit. The contact details for the nominated Garda Inspectors are available on the Garda website.
In dealing with any complaint of drug related intimidation or advice sought in relation to this issue the Garda Síochána do so with the utmost safety and effective means in order to afford the person or family subject to the threat of the best level of security, advice and support which can be offered. Most importantly the Garda Síochána will deal with this issue in the utmost confidential and secure fashion.
At the heart of the concerns expressed by the Deputy, is the relationship between communities and their local Gardaí. It is worth recalling that the Programme for a Partnership Government underlines the importance of community policing in responding to the concerns and expectation of both urban and rural communities. I would like to re-affirm that the Government remains committed to supporting the Gardaí to make communities safer. The Government has devoted very significant resources for policing in recent years, and this will continue, in particular through the accelerated programme of Garda recruitment. This undoubtedly will enhance policing services for all communities across the country.
An Garda Síochána is involved in a variety of activities, including local and Regional drug and alcohol Task Forces, Garda youth diversionary projects, the juvenile diversion programme, the Garda schools programme and the conducting of proactive operations designed to address drug supply in communities.
However, I would also like to emphasise that, in particular where communities experience intimidation, Joint Policing Committees have a very important role in facilitating consultation, cooperation and synergy on policing and crime issues between An Garda Síochána, Local Authorities and elected local representatives and active and constructive engagement by elected members is very important.
Policing Authority
Ceisteanna (52)
Mick Wallace
Ceist:52. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to strengthen the Garda Síochána (Policing Authority and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2015 in order to increase the powers of the Policing Authority with regard to monitoring transparency, providing oversight and ensuring accountability, particularly in view of the ongoing crises within An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32754/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Deputy will be aware that the Policing Authority is an independent statutory body established on 1 January 2016 to oversee the performance of An Garda Síochána in relation to policing services, to promote public awareness of policing matters and to promote and support the continuous improvements in policing in Ireland.
The statutory basis for the Authority is the Garda Síochána (Policing Authority and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2015, which amended the Garda Síochána Act 2005. The establishment of the Policing Authority represents one of the most significant developments in policing since the founding of the State.
The Authority is tasked with overseeing the performance of the Garda Commissioner in respect of the very wide remit of all policing services, while developing a key role in the future appointment of senior Garda management and civilian staff and driving reform of the policing system and practices. Since its establishment on 1 January 2016, I believe that the Policing Authority has proven to be very effective in the performance of its functions in this regard. For example in its first year of existence, the Authority has met with the Commissioner and her senior team on 13 occasions. It has approved a three-year Strategy for An Garda Síochána. It has also determined the policing priorities for 2017 which informed the content of the 2017 Policing Plan which it also approved. In addition, it has reviewed and issued recommendations on the Garda Protected Disclosure policy and has also published a Code of Ethics that includes standards of conduct and practice for Garda members.
The Deputy will also be aware that the Report of the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality on Garda Oversight and Accountability, published in December 2016, includes a number of recommendations in relation to the statutory remit of the Authority. I want to make it clear that the Government is fully supportive of the Authority having appropriate powers so that it can carry out its oversight functions in an efficient and effective manner. However, I would draw the attention of the Deputy to the provisions of section 62O of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, which requires the Authority to prepare a report on the effectiveness of the Authority and the adequacy of the functions assigned to it by the legislation. The report can contain recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the Authority and is required to be submitted to me, as Minister, within 2 years of the establishment of the Authority. There is also a requirement for the report to be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Thus, the legislation envisages that it would be prudent for the Authority to examine, after a reasonable period of time, whether it is adequately empowered to carry out its oversight functions. In this manner, an informed decision can be taken in due course, having due regard to the views of the Authority and, of course, the Report of the Committee, as to whether additional powers would be needed by the Authority and the nature of any such powers.
Road Traffic Legislation
Ceisteanna (53)
John Curran
Ceist:53. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport all relevant legislation regarding the ownership and use of scramblers and quads with a view to introducing appropriate legislation to deal with the issue of youths continuing to use these scramblers and quads in parks, streets and neighbourhoods without insurance and the difficulty being experienced by Gardaí in stopping these youths and seizing and retaining these quads and scramblers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32887/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Further to the Deputy's Parliamentary Question No. 55 of 23 May 2017 in relation to this matter, I share the concerns of my predecessor, the Tánaiste, in relation to the public safety and anti-social issues associated with the misuse of such vehicles. It is a very serious issue. The Deputy will be aware that the use of mechanically propelled vehicles, including quad bikes and scramblers, in a public place is subject to the relevant requirements of road traffic legislation. I am advised by the Garda authorities that these vehicles, when used in a public place, must comply with the Road Traffic Acts, including in relation to motor tax, insurance and possession of a valid driver licence or learner permit. Under the Road Traffic Acts, any member of An Garda Síochána is allowed to stop a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place and demand production of a driver licence or learner permit. In addition, Gardaí may inspect the vehicle for compliance with vehicle standards legislation, which makes it an offence to drive without reasonable consideration, drive carelessly, or drive dangerously. The Garda authorities also have powers of seizure, detention, storage and disposal of vehicles under road traffic legislation.
I am further informed that the use of quad bikes and scramblers in public parks and open spaces is strictly prohibited by the local authorities under the Parks and Open Spaces Bye-Laws 2011.
Despite the road traffic and other relevant legislation available in this area, the Garda authorities have indicated that the use of quad bikes and scramblers by minors and youths in public parks has proven difficult to deal with from an enforcement perspective. Garda members are instructed not to pursue youths on quad bikes, scramblers, etc. owing to the inherent safety risk in pursuing these vehicles. If such pursuits were to take place, there would be a high risk of these ending in collisions at speed resulting in serious injury or death, so the opportunity to actually bring these vehicles to a stop is rare.
The Garda authorities have advised that the issue is one which is best addressed through a multi-agency approach. In this regard, Gardaí are working with local authorities, including park authorities, to examine other solutions, such as engineering solutions. Enhanced fencing and bike gates are examples of engineering measures taken to restrict access to parks.
To better facilitate this multi-agency approach, I have written to the relevant parties, including the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, as well as the Garda Commissioner and the Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners, in order to ascertain whether there are additional legislative or other solutions which can assist us in dealing with this issue more comprehensively.
Garda Civilian Staff
Ceisteanna (54)
Jim O'Callaghan
Ceist:54. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of civilianisation within An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32890/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The most recent available figure for the number of civilians working in An Garda Síochána is for 31 May 2017, at which point there were 2,110 civilian staff members working throughout the organisation carrying out senior management, administrative and technical roles.
As part of its Five Year Reform and High-level Workforce Plan for An Garda Síochána, the Government has agreed an overall vision for a Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 to include 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Garda Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. This very substantial investment in personnel is driven by our commitment to ensure all citizens have the reassurance of a visible, responsive and effective policing service. The projected number of 4,000 civilians will effectively double the current figure and represents a medium-term target of a Garda organisation 20% comprised of civilians. That will bring An Garda Síochána, currently 14% comprised of civilians, more in line with international norms and ensure that trained Gardaí are not engaging in administrative and technical duties which could be done by suitably qualified civilian staff.
The 20% target will be achieved through a twin-track approach of, firstly, a “civilian by default” policy to be adopted in relation to the filling of all new posts other than operational policing posts and for non-operational policing posts that become vacant and, secondly, the redeployment of Gardaí and backfilling by suitably qualified civilians where necessary. In its 'Changing Policing in Ireland' report, the Garda Inspectorate has estimated that there may be up to 1,250 Gardaí currently in such posts and the Government’s plan aims to return as many of these Gardaí as possible to front-line duties over the next five years. With this in mind, the Garda Commissioner, in conjunction with the Policing Authority, has been requested to identify posts suitable for redeployment and to prepare a 5 year plan for reaching the 20% medium term target.
Funding for the recruitment of up to 500 civilians has been provided in Budget 2017 to facilitate the Commissioner in addressing capacity and critical skills gaps across the organisation including in corporate supports, change management, human resources and financial management at the national, regional and Divisional level. These appointments are intended to facilitate deeper civilianisation in the coming years.
To date, the Policing Authority (with the consent of the Department of Justice and Equality and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform) has approved 137 of these positions including two new senior posts of Executive Director Strategy and Change Management and Executive Director Legal and Compliance. The Government has also agreed in principle to the positions of a Chief Information Officer. The majority of the positions sanctioned are in the areas of ICT, Human Resources, Governance and Strategy, Legal and Compliance, and Finance. 43 of the initial 137 sanctioned posts will go towards back filling vacancies created by the redeployment of Garda members to policing duties. Garda management has indicated that some 163 of the total 500 civilians to be recruited this year will lead to redeployment opportunities.
This level of commitment in the first year is very welcome and it is expected that the quantum of redeployments will increase in 2018 and beyond.
The Garda Commissioner has statutory responsibility for recruitment and is working with the Public Appointments Service to fill these sanctioned posts. In addition there is ongoing engagement between Garda management, the Policing Authority, my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in relation to sanctioning further posts to meet identified business needs across the organisation and draw down the funding that is available for up to 500 additional civilians this year.
Garda Data
Ceisteanna (55)
Marc MacSharry
Ceist:55. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in counties Sligo and Leitrim as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32863/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.
Last Thursday a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another four hundred scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Sligo/Leitrim Division in the coming years.
This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that 13 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Sligo/Leitrim Division since the College reopened.
For the Deputy's information I have set out in the table, as provided by the Commissioner, the number of Gardaí assigned to the Sligo/Leitrim Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available.
SLIGO / LEITRIM DIVISION 31 MAY 2017
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
BALLYMOTE |
BALLYMOTE |
32 |
|
ENNISCRONE |
7 |
|
|
GURTEEN |
2 |
|
|
RIVERSTOWN |
3 |
|
|
TUBBERCURRY |
9 |
|
|
TOTAL |
53 |
|
|
LEITRIM |
BALLINAMORE |
7 |
|
CARRICK-ON-SHANNON |
51 |
|
|
CARRIGALLEN |
2 |
|
|
DRUMSHAMBO |
5 |
|
|
KINLOUGH |
4 |
|
|
MANORHAMILTON |
21 |
|
|
MOHILL |
6 |
|
|
TOTAL |
96 |
|
|
SLIGO |
COLLOONEY |
5 |
|
GRANGE |
6 |
|
|
ROSSES POINT |
1 |
|
|
SKREEN |
1 |
|
|
SLIGO |
136 |
|
|
TOTAL |
149 |
|
|
SLIGO / LEITRIM TOTAL |
298 |