Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice, Pa Daly TD, has today commented on the report of the high-level group on the role of Gardaí in prosecutions.

The report follows a recommendation from the Commission on the Future of Policing that Gardaí be removed from court prosecuting duties. 
 
Teachta Daly said: 
 
“The report, which has taken a considerable time to materialise, has not taken as radical an approach as the Commission on the Future of Policing, which recommended the role of prosecutor be removed entirely from members of An Garda Síochána.

“It instead recommends that categories of cases be identified, mostly in the District Court, which could be handled by the DPP.
 
“This will require extra resources, as the DPP has made clear they are struggling with the current workload. However, the moving of non-core duties away from Gardaí is an important measure in tackling the current recruitment and retention crisis. 
 
“Non-core duties such as prosecuting cases, providing courtroom security or escorting prisoners, put pressure on Gardaí and mean they have less time for more important policing duties. Action is needed in these areas as soon as possible.
 
“The fact the new Garda Reserve regulations remain unpublished is a disappointment. The government must act and improve visibility of policing in the state.”