Draft terms of reference for policing inquiry published

The draft terms of reference for the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland has been published, Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald announced yesterday.

The draft terms, published here in full, cover Garda structures and management arrangements, the appropriate composition of personnel, the culture and ethos of policing, the appropriate structures for governance and oversight, and the legislative framework for policing.

Ms Fitzgerald said: “The Government agreed at its meeting today to establish a Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland and to circulate the draft terms of reference to other parties.

“The draft terms of reference are intended to be comprehensive and provide for a thorough review of all aspects of policing in Ireland including the structures, leadership, management; composition, recruitment and training of personnel; the culture and ethos of policing.

“They also account for all aspects of oversight and accountability, including looking at the role of existing oversight bodies, including the Department of Justice and Equality and the Government.”

She said the final terms of reference will be agreed by the Government shortly after Easter.

Ms Fitzgerald added: “I am determined this fundamental look at the future of policing will ensure we have an open, transparent, efficient, 21st Century police service.”