McDowell to propose new policing and security body

A NEW parliamentary committee dedicated to policing and security may be established in Leinster House in the new year.

Responsibility for this crucial area of government policy is currently covered by the Oireachtas Justice Committee which also straddles issues such as equality, defence and women’s rights.

However, Tánaiste and Justice Minister Michael McDowell is expected to propose to the Cabinet in the coming weeks that a separate all-party body of suitably selected TDs and senators is needed to discuss legislative reform in this rapidly changing area.