Bouncers to get unique ID tags after graduation
The move comes in advance of planned legislation to regulate the entertainment industry.
The photo-ID system is being introduced on a pilot basis, said ISTA executive trainer Gerry Dunne. "We believe our training and certification methods will be in line with the long-awaited regulations."
Mr Dunne said the training criteria had the approval of the gardaí and other State agencies. The ID scheme, he said, is modelled on established international best practices and is recognised by the Security Institute of Ireland and its British equivalent, SITO.
Mr Dunne said training schemes for door supervisors in Britain led to a 70% fall in incidents directly related to security staff in areas such as Liverpool. Dublin Lord Mayor Royston Brady will today present certificates to the 40 staff approved under the training scheme.
Mr Dunne said the ISTA will maintain the registration database and information will be made available to the gardaí for security clearance.
He says training and vetting of door staff will be a prerequisite of employment in the entertainment and leisure industry when legislation is drafted.
Mr Dunne said the unique ID tagging scheme was a continuation of the company's Safer Doors 2000 programme, aimed at setting new standards in the growing leisure and entertainment security industries.
He revealed the company is involved in discussions with FÁS and other State training agencies to provide support for individuals seeking a new career. Mr Dunne said many security firms employing door staff had issued high visibility jackets and name tags to staff to improve their services. However, the British-based City and Guilds certificate course offered by the ISTA was the only scheme with international recognition.
