Garda Inspectorate Report is another step towards Garda Reform – Coonan

Fine Gael TD for Tipperary, Noel Coonan, has said that the Garda Inspectorate report published by the Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald, is another important step towards Garda reform.
“The Garda Inspectorate report titled ‘Changing Policing in Ireland – Delivering a Visible, Accessible and Responsive Service’ is the outcome of a thorough examination of An Garda Síochána over the past two years.
“The report contains over 80 recommendations as well as key actions to be implemented in the short, medium or long term.
“Like other police forces examined by the Inspectorate, An Garda Síochána needs reform. This is something that Minister Fitzgerald has been addressing for some time. The Government is focused on putting in place concrete measures that will ensure public confidence in our police force, while supporting An Garda Síochána in their day-to-day work.
“Reforms already implemented include the appointment of the Garda Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioners through open competition; introduction of legislation to strengthen the remit of GSOC; the establishment of a Commission of Investigation into the Cavan/Monaghan Division and introduction of legislation to allow Garda members to make protected disclosures to GSOC.
“Supporting the Gardaí in the valuable work that they do in our communities is also a priority for this Government. Templemore has been reopened, after it was closed by Fianna Fáil and the recruitment of 1,150 new Gardaí is now underway.
“Minister Fitzgerald has announced the investment of €46 million for Garda vehicles over the next five years; €18 million for the refurbishment of Garda stations and €205 million for new technology and systems for An Garda Síochána. This is part of an unprecedented allocation of €875 million in capital funding in the Justice sector.

“The Criminal Justice (Burglary of Dwellings) Bill, has also been published which will mean tougher sentences for repeat burglars.
“Garda reform is now underway and will continue under this Government, if re-elected. As more jobs are added to the economy, more money will become available to invest in vital services like An Garda Síochána. The Garda Inspectorate report is very important in setting out the path for further reform into the future.”