Check Against Delivery
Address by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald TD, on the occasion of the Garda Passing Out Parade
The Garda College, Templemore
Thursday, 23 July 2015
Taoiseach, Commissioner, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen and last but by no means least, our new members of An Garda Síochána.
Firstly, thank you, Taoiseach, for presiding over this ceremony.
Because it is an important day.
The Passing Out day in An Garda Síochána always has been.
It's important for the newcomers joining the service.
It's SO important for their families.
It's a link to a great tradition and a proud history.
This year, though, it is also a shining pointer towards the future. For so many reasons, starting with the number of applicants. Literally thousands - tens of thousands - of applications were received. An Garda Síochána has come through some chequered times, recently, and this Government has taken decisive action to correct the problems behind the negative headlines. But it is enormously encouraging that, despite those headlines, so many of our citizens want to serve their fellow citizens -- and see membership of the Gardaí as the best way to do it.
Today is different, too, because of the toughness of the revised training programme which will lead to a High Level Degree. That means we are saluting our 97 new Guards for their academic achievements, as well as for coming through on all the other measures applied here in Templemore.
The degree underlines how far this service has come, and how very different are the calls on it from the calls fifty or more years ago.
As we all know budgetary constraints over the last few years halted recruitment in the Public Sector including An Garda Síochána but recruitment has re-commenced and these fine facilities are once again being put to best use. Three hundred recruits, you included, have entered the college since last September and a further 250 more will do so over the coming months. I know that Commissioner O’Sullivan and the Garda force are committed to maintaining operational effectiveness. The Government fully supports that objective.
The Taoiseach mentioned some of the harsh realities of police work and the devastating effects crime can have on individuals and families. We all wish we could be of help and in some way ease the pain for those who become a victim of crime.
The difference is that you CAN help. You can help by dealing with victims of crime with sensitivity and professionalism making at least the experience with An Garda Síochána as painless as possible. I have secured Government approval for the drafting of the new Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Bill, on a priority basis as referred to by An Taoiseach. The Bill will fulfil a commitment in the Programme for Government to enact legislation to strengthen the rights of victims of crime and their families, to ensure that victims and their needs are at the heart of the justice process and that rights to information, advice and other appropriate assistance are met effectively and efficiently. I know that you will all play your part in making this a reality.
After the vigorous training you have just completed, you will now go out into your communities.
Always remember that An Garda Síochána is not about a uniform and any perceived power that it may hold but it is about serving your country and the citizens of Ireland to the best of your ability in a sometimes dangerous environment. You are, quite literally, guardians of the peace. Peace. It's like air. For the most part, we take it for granted. Each of you contributes to that taking-for-granted.
I would like to take this opportunity of congratulating the Commissioner and the members of An Garda Síochána for all the tremendous work they do to make us feel safe in our homes and on our streets.
As the Taoiseach has pointed out, the excellent work performed on a day to day basis by An Garda Síochána can go unnoticed especially when controversy hits. All focus can be placed on what is wrong with the Force and what is right can be completely ignored. The correct balance needs to be reached between pride and confidence in the job and the wisdom and understanding to know that nothing stands still, and constructive criticism which leads to positive change and reform is a good thing. It provides the opportunity for An Garda Síochána to reach the best possible policing standards and obtain the respect and trust of the citizens of Ireland.
You have already proven your academic capability. Now, the real test will become evident in how you can uphold the principles of honesty, integrity, sensitivity, accountability, respect and professionalism. As you go through your career, I hope that you will retain those principles and show the strength of character and generosity of spirit to support and respect those who will follow you. Learn from the managers who show the leadership skills that inspire confidence and respect and use those skills when your time comes to mentor and support those coming up behind you.
I hope you make a real difference to the lives of those you will come in contact with as a member of An Garda Síochána. I wish you the best of luck and wisdom in your career and I hope that you all have a great day with your families and friends.
ENDS