Landmark policing bill to be published

Landmark policing bill to be published

Helen McEntee

Landmark legislation giving effect to the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI) is set to be published with a view to it becoming law next year.

The Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill will overhaul the legal framework of accountability, governance and oversight of policing and security and provide a statutory basis for a “new approach” to community safety.

The target date for full implementation is the end of 2023 with commencement to follow in January 2024. When enacted, the bill will repeal the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended) in its entirety.

The bill will establish a new Policing and Community Safety Authority, combining the existing oversight functions of the Policing Authority and Garda Síochána Inspectorate.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (Gsoc) will be renamed the Office of the Police Ombudsman with redesigned processes and much greater financial independence. The current three-person commission will be replaced with an ombudsman and deputy ombudsman model, so that the organisation will have a clear and publicly identifiable leader.

The bill will also establish a new Independent Examiner of Security Legislation to review and oversee the operation and effectiveness of security legislation and practice.

A number of changes have been made to the bill since the general scheme was published in April.

In particular, the accountability framework applying to the Garda Commissioner has been “reviewed and clarified” and the bill now includes a clear statement that the Garda Commissioner is, subject to the Act, independent in the performance of their functions.

Mrs McEntee said: “The Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill takes into account the suggestions of a wide range of stakeholders, including the pre-legislative scrutiny of the Oireachtas justice committee. I wish to thank all of those who contributed their views to the process.

“The recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland are central to the bill and recognising that upholding the human rights of individuals and communities and preventing harm, in particular to individuals who are vulnerable or at risk, are core to the role of An Garda Síochána, is rightly at the forefront of these reforms.”

The bill also establishes Local Community Safety Partnerships that will develop local safety plans that are tailored to the priorities and needs identified by communities themselves.

James Browne, minister of state for law reform, said: “Community safety is about people being safe, and just as importantly feeling safe in their community. This is not something that can be achieved solely by traditional, boots-on-the-ground policing though of course that will continue to be needed.

“The innovative Local Community Safety Partnerships will provide a forum for State agencies and local community representatives to work together to listen to, prioritise and act on community concerns. The Partnerships will build on the structures of the Joint Policing Committees, in order to develop and deliver a modern dynamic forum for the future.”

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