Dáil to debate moves urging independent policing board
Independent TD Mick Wallace will propose laws setting up an independent policing board which would take over many of the functions currently undertaken by the justice minister.
This would including the appointment of a Garda commissioner and other oversight roles.
The board would “promote the integration of human rights” throughout the force, according to the Wexford TD, and “facilitate community engagement and consultation”.
The board would consist of 16 members made up of four TDs, members of the Garda unions, civil society and the Human Rights Commission.
Mr Wallace was among the TDs who highlighted alleged abuse of discretionary powers in relation to penalty points.
Garda information about a “ticking off” Mr Wallace received for using a mobile phone while driving was used against him by Mr Shatter in a TV debate on the issue.
Mr Wallace says his legislation, which will be debated in the Dáil tonight and tomorrow, proposes to separate the link between the minister, the Government, and the commissioner.
“Following on from the lack of progress since the Morris Tribunal, the penalty points scandal, the Garda Ombudsman’s unprecedented step to expose the lack of Garda co-operation in their investigations, and the spotlight on the relationship between the Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner, this piece of legislation is significant,” he said.
Individuals from across the country who allege to have been “the victims of Garda malpractice or inaction” will outline why they believe oversight of the force is “of vital importance for the people of Ireland” during a press conference ahead of the Dáil debate.
