Reluctance To Fill Vacancies In Garda Internal Audit Unit Needs To End - FF

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West John Curran has said the reluctance to fill vacancies in the Garda Internal Audit Unit needs to end in order to hold the force to account and ensure it achieves and maintains the highest possible standards.

The Deputy was commenting on information he received by Parliamentary Question earlier this month which indicates that there have been at least two vacancies in staff numbers of the Garda Internal Audit Unit since 2012. There are currently three vacant positions within in the unit.

He said: "The public and rank and file Gardaí are entitled to expect that the force is being managed both competently and effectively. Particularly in light of recent controversies rebuilding full trust in An Garda Siochana is essential.

"It is possible that the reduction in staff has had a negative impact on the number of reports completed by the Garda Internal Audit Section. In 2012 there were 29 audit reports carried out, 13 in 2013 and a total 15 in 2016.

"Looking at the information provided by the Minister for Justice, there appears to be a correlation of some sort between the number of staff vacancies and the number of internal audits carried out. A thorough explanation must be provided.

"Fianna Fáil believes that decisive action must be taken to implement real reform and cultural change in An Garda Síochána. Full transparency in the processes and procedures around Garda oversight is crucial in restoring full public confidence."