The Government today announced a public consultation on establishing an independent Policing Authority.
Background
The Government considers there is a need to ensure full public confidence in, and support for, An Garda Síochána, given the very difficult and important task it fulfills. At its meeting on 1 April, the Government decided to establish an independent Policing Authority alongside other associated reforms to the policing and justice system. The Government also considers it is important that there be a full public debate on the issue of policing and justice reform. The intention is to have new structures, including the establishment of a new independent Policing Authority, in place before the end of the year.
Proposals are currently being developed for an independent Policing Authority
which is appropriate to Ireland's needs and which will maintain appropriate democratic accountability to the Oireachtas.
As part of the public consultation, advertisements were placed in the national newspapers today seeking written submissions on options for establishment of the Authority, including:
- functions and responsibilities of a Policing Authority ;
- appointment and membership of the Authority;
- its relationship with the Government and the Oireachtas, and
- implications for the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) and the Garda Síochána Inspectorate.
Making a submission
Submissions are welcome on any policy issues associated with the establishment of an independent Policing Authority but issues relating to individual cases involving An Garda Síochána will not be considered.
If you wish to make a submission please include your name and contact details (phone number and postal address and, if available, an email address). If the submission is on behalf of an organisation, you should indicate your position in the organisation. You should be aware that any submissions (including your identity) may be published and will also be subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Acts.
The deadline for receipt of submissions is Saturday, 31st May, 2014.
Submissions can be e-mailed to justicereformsubmissions@justice.ie or posted to:
Justice Reform Unit,
Department of Justice and Equality,
51 St. Stephen's Green,
Dublin 2.