Topical Issue Debate

Dáil Éireann

Thursday 18 June, 2015

 

To discuss the serious problems in the functioning of GSOC and their inability to hold the Gardaí to account - Deputy Clare Daly

　

Ceann Comhairle,

I wish to thank the Deputy for raising this matter.

GSOC General

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) was established as a statutory independent body, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, to provide independent oversight of complaints made against members of the Garda Síochána. It commenced operations on 9 May 2007.

The Garda Act stipulates that GSOC is independent in the exercise of its functions and I, as Minister, have no role in the processing of individual complaints which are referred for investigation. Indeed, it is this guarantee of independence which is the hallmark of effective oversight,

GSOC has a hugely important role in ensuring that public confidence in the Garda Síochána is safeguarded, and has extensive powers under the 2005 Act to enable it to carry out its responsibilities.

It is important that we all respect the independence of bodies such as GSOC. It would be a travesty if, having established such bodies, this House was then to impinge on that independence. I’ve no doubt that all members of the House would agree that it would not be appropriate for Deputies to second guess the Ombudsman Commission in relation to its investigations.

The House will be aware that there is a mechanism in the 2005 Act to inquire into the conduct of GSOC designated officers. Arising out of the recent tragic death of Sgt Michael Galvin, Mr Justice Frank Clarke of the Supreme Court is carrying out such an inquiry. I do not propose to comment further on this particular matter at this stage.

Changes to legislation

The Oireachtas recently enacted the Garda Síochána (Amendment) Act 2015 to reform, strengthen and clarify the remit and operation of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission. This is a key element of the Government's programme of justice reform and it was commenced in its entirety on 27 April 2015.

Annual Report

In recent days my Department laid the GSOC Annual Report for 2014 before both Houses of the Oireachtas. 2014 was a busy and challenging year for GSOC. The Annual Report states that GSOC received 11% more complaints in 2014 over 2013 and concluded 8% more cases in 2014 compared with 2013.

There is a generally positive message coming out of the report about Garda-GSOC cooperation. The Report acknowledges “marked improvements in efficiency and in dialogue and cooperation with the Garda Síochána” which they hope will continue into 2015.

GSOC Chair

My Department recently advertised seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals for the position of Chairperson of GSOC and I expect that the Government will make its nomination for appointment shortly.

Conclusion

I would like to assure the House that the Government remains committed to implementing a comprehensive programme of reform in the areas of policing and justice and will continue to be fully supportive of GSOC.

 

ENDS