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Justice Minister Alan Shatter today published approved proposals for a revised Garda compensation scheme.

The scheme relates to a death or injury which is maliciously inflicted upon a member of the Garda Síochána while on duty or in connection with their duties.  

The proposals represent a major improvement on the current compensation scheme for both Gardaí and the State.  The majority of Gardaí who need to access the scheme will receive more prompt payments and the State will have reduced costs in administering the revised scheme.

said Minister Shatter.

The details of the revised scheme, which were recently approved by the Government,  are set out in the Draft General Scheme of the Garda Síochána Compensation (Malicious Injuries) Bill 2012. 

The proposal devolves responsibility for implementing the revised scheme from the Minister to the Garda Commissioner and proposed legislative change will enable the State Claims Agency to administer the scheme on behalf of the Garda Commissioner.

The revised scheme is expected to save about €3 million each year in reduced awards, legal fees and administrative costs.

Link to the Draft General Scheme of the Garda Síochána Compensation (Malicious Injuries) Bill 2012:

Regulatory Impact Analysis of the Garda Síochána Compensation (Malicious Injuries) Bill 2012: