Consultation expected on Garda reform plan

A consultation process for Garda reform is expected after the Minister for Justice Michael McDowell unveiled proposals to modernise the force.

Interest groups are already scrutinising the Scheme of the Garda Síochana Bill, which proposes setting up an inspectorate to deal with complaints by the public.

Director of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties Aisling Reidy said the new system should mirror reforms introduced in the North.

The new body would replace the existing system whereby gardaí investigate complaints against their own colleagues. However, it would not have the same powers as the North's Police Ombudsman.