New Commissioner must deliver on reforms
Labour Justice spokesperson Sean Sherlock TD has said it is essential that the new Garda Commissioner Drew Harris deliver on a comprehensive programme of reforms to transform An Garda Síochána into a modern 21st century police force, and the Government must ensure he receives the resources to do so.
Deputy Sherlock said:
“The new Commissioner came through a rigorous selection process but now must deliver. The task is formidable, but essential to ensure that An Garda Síochána is transformed into a modern 21st century police force.
“The template for these reforms must be based off the reports of the Policing Authority and implementation of Garda Inspectorate recommendations. I expect to see progress in the coming months and an action plan of implementation.
“As a first step, I would welcome the Commissioner’s appearance at the Oireachtas Justice Committee at the soonest possible opportunity to outline his own vision and state whether or not it is his intention to give proper recognition to the Policing Authority and the reform agenda they have embarked upon.
“What the Labour Party wants to see in the year ahead is crime statistics we can stand over, that would allow for evidence based deployment of resources and Garda members on the basis of where crime is happening. Central to this is the urgent overhaul of IT systems.
“Alongside this Gardaí must be properly equipped and trained. For example, there should be immediate progress on the roll out of body cams, and efforts to ensure all stations are equipped with the correct IT infrastructure and broadband.
“Commissioner Harris has a tough job ahead, and I welcome his commitment to openness and transparency. I hope to see a comprehensive work plan laid out that we can then all hold him, the force, and the Minister accountable to.”