Police authority fast-tracked

The Cabinet has agreed to fast-track legislation for the new policing authority in a bid to get the body up and running before its promised start date in the new year.

Labour had pushed for its establishment in the wake of controversies that engulfed An Garda Síochána, including the penalty points scandal.

As part of its packed agenda in what may be the last Cabinet meeting before the general election, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald sought an “early signature” on the policing authority legislation.