Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
805. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Justice how plans are progressing in relation to amending the current situation regarding Garda vetting and the current need for multiple applications for the same person for different entities and organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2530/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra819. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Justice the status of the review of the Garda vetting process; when the review will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2944/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 805 and 819 together.
The primary purpose of vetting carried out by the Garda National Vetting Bureau is to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. I know the Deputy appreciates the importance of this task and I am sure he agrees with the need for it to be carried out thoroughly and correctly.
Vetting is carried out by An Garda Síochána in accordance with the provisions of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 - 2016. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I believe the many organisations whose work focuses on the safety, enjoyment and comfort of children and vulnerable people understand that they must take all reasonable steps to ensure that only suitable people are recruited and employed, and take this responsibility very seriously. This requires a robust Garda vetting process that reassures the public, and in particular parents, that appropriate checks are conducted on people taking on positions of trust.
I am advised by Garda authorities that the current system relating to Garda Vetting is delivered in a standard format to each organisation seeking Garda Vetting and this methodology is in line with good practice internationally.
The Garda Vetting Review Group was tasked with ensuring that any changes to the vetting process ensure it remains robust, efficient and effective while improving the service to customers. The membership of the group includes the Gardaí, officials from my Department, from Tusla, and from other relevant stakeholders.
I can assure the Deputy that the Group’s primary focus has been to examine the means of strengthening the vetting legislation in a workable and effective manner, while seeking to balance this with issues that have arisen regarding the re-vetting period and the transfer of vetting across other similar activities, for example with sports teams. I am informed that the Group’s report on arrangements for Garda Vetting is being finalised and I look forward to receiving the report in the near future.
I can also assure the Deputy that there will be no delay in responding to any recommendations made to me.
