merrion street

“On Thursday I received copies of the reports by Assistant Commissioner
Michael O’Sullivan regarding breath tests carried out at Mandatory Alcohol
Testing checkpoints (MATs) and the Fixed Charge Processing System (FCPS).
These lengthy reports are detailed and technical and cover a period of
several years - from 2006 in relation to FCPS and from 2009 in relation to
MATs.

“I have today briefed Cabinet on these Garda reports, which I understand
will be published by An Garda Siochána later today.

“The reports identify serious and concerning problems in the operation of
both the Mandatory Alcohol Testing checkpoint system and the Fixed Charge
Processing System. Both reports indicate that An Garda Síochána has
already put a range of measures in place to address issues around data
collection and recording and the operation of both the MATS and FCPS
systems.

“I am greatly disturbed by findings that indicate that between 3% and 9%
of the PULSE records relating to MAT/MIT checkpoints are estimated to have
inflated breath tests. I note that any potential such cases identified in
this report have been referred to the relevant Regional offices for further
investigation and sanction where appropriate. This is critically important.
Enormous responsibility and great trust is vested in An Garda Síochána and
it is therefore vital that members of the force discharge their duties with
professionalism and integrity.

“The report on the Fixed Charge Processing System identifies technical and
training/guidance problems and indicates that the IT solutions to the
issues identified have been effective in preventing further occurrences. It
also proposes solutions to the other issues, which will be examined in
detail in conjunction with the Policing Authority report. I welcome the
steps underway to remedy the situation where drivers were incorrectly
issued with summons arising from these failures and I acknowledge the
impact on drivers affected.

“I look forward to receiving the report of the Policing Authority into both
of these issues. The Policing Authority is vested with an important
oversight role in respect of An Garda Síochána and its independent analyses
of these issues will be critical. This report is due in the coming weeks.
I will take all appropriate action when this report is submitted to me.”