20/05/2014

Sinn Féin Launch Policing Reform Proposals

Sinn Féin has launched its policing reform proposals document 'A New Beginning to Policing'.

Launching the document, the party's justice spokesperson Pádraig MacLochlainn said that it aims to restore public confidence in the administration of policing and justice in this state.

The document is also Sinn Féin’s submission to the government’s consultation process on the establishment of an Independent Policing Authority.

Speaking after the launch, Deputy MacLochlainn said: "Sinn Féin’s submission to the government’s consultation process on the establishment of an Independent Policing Authority comes as public confidence in our policing and justice system continues to be severely undermined and must be restored.

"A catalogue of recent controversies that have emerged through the courageous efforts of a number of whistleblowers relating to An Garda Síochána are both shocking and profound for the state, society and not least the Gardaí themselves.

"The vast majority of Gardaí are good, public-minded, patriotic men and women who do their job well but they have been failed by senior management and by government after government.

"There is a lack of regulation, transparency and accountability. Until now Labour and Fine Gael have resisted proposals to establish an independent Garda authority or increased powers for the Garda Ombudsman.

"Our comprehensive proposals include support for a new independent Garda Authority, expanded powers and reforms of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, the establishment of a new Criminal Justice Inspectorate and formal North/South Co-operation.

"Our proposals will be presented to An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD and the new Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald TD. We urge them to consider their implementation."

(MH)

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