Enhanced powers for Garda Reserve
According to the Department of Justice, Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan is finalising arrangements for the extension of “powers and facilities” for the reserve following an internal review.
“The commissioner has decided to extend their powers to include additional training in areas such as domestic violence, child protection, conflict resolution, garda policy on bullying and harassment, out of vehicle safety training, first aid and ample probe training,” said a Department of Justice spokeswoman.
According to the department, Commissioner O’Sullivan is also providing for the reserves to be issued with Tetra radios — the radio used by full members of the force — when on duty.
They will also be given powers in relation to the seizure of vehicles and will be able to issue fixed-charge penalty notices and serve summonses.
The commissioner is also introducing a mentor/tutor garda for the reserve members and giving them a formal appraisal system.
The Department of Justice said the range of powers and duties is a matter for the commissioner, but Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald said she welcomed confirmation of the expanded role.
At present Garda Reserve duties include:
- Station duty, other than the care and custody of prisoners;
- Communications room duty, to include monitoring CCTV;
- Foot patrol, accompanied by a garda;
- Road traffic checkpoint duties, accompanied by a full time member;
- Duty at the outer cordon of major events such as festivals and sporting events;
- Assisting in the event of accidents, fires and major emergencies;
- Giving evidence in court.
