Digital technology can be a source of the 'most grotesque' exploitation and abuse of children

Policing Authority welcomes garda progress in reducing the backlog in the examination of digital devices for child abuse imagery

In his foreword to the report, authority chair Bob Collins said it had devoted “considerable attention” to the implementation of the recommendations of the Inspectorate’s report on Child Sexual Abuse in 2012 and updated in 2017. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins Photos

Digital technology can be a source of the “most grotesque” exploitation and abuse of children and “no stone” should be left unturned in trying to eliminate the scourge, the Policing Authority has said.

The authority welcomed garda progress in reducing the backlog in the examination of digital devices for child abuse imagery – an issue that has been repeatedly highlighted over the years by oversight bodies and the courts.

In its 2022 annual report, the authority said:

*Covid restrictions meant that instead of a projected 2,000 new garda recruits joining the organisation, little over half that number did so;

*It is “horrified” by the continuing pattern of assaults on gardaí in the course of their duty;

*It is certain that “urgent and substantial” change of garda disciplinary arrangements is absolutely essential;

*It is “disappointed” that it could not progress its intention to ensure that covert policing, that is not related to national security, is subject to oversight like other aspects of policing. 

In his foreword to the report, authority chair Bob Collins said it had devoted “considerable attention” to the implementation of the recommendations of the Inspectorate’s report on Child Sexual Abuse in 2012 and updated in 2017.

“The pervasive presence of new technologies in our lives can bring great benefits but, as this issue demonstrates, can also be a source of the most grotesque exploitation and abuse of children,” Mr Collins said.

“No stone can be left unturned in attempting to eliminate this scourge from the lives of the innocent. While recognising that continuing efforts will be involved, the Authority welcomes the steps that have been taken by the Garda Síochána and by partner agencies.” 

He said the authority welcomed in particular the progress being made in reducing the backlog in the examination of devices whose contents may contain material of evidential value.

Mr Collins said it was “a source of disappointment” that progress could not be reported on the authority’s intention to ensure that non-security covert policing should be amenable to oversight, with appropriate and necessary safeguards.