A new Garda watchdog will be given stronger powers to carry out unannounced inspections of Garda stations under proposed policing reforms. The bill will also aim to make community safety an “all of Government” responsibility and also improve independent oversight of our national security. One key proposal is to combine the functions of two existing oversight bodies, the Policing Authority and the Garda Inspectorate, into a new Policing and Community Safety Authority. The new watchdog will be given stronger oversight ability, including the power to carry out unannounced visits of Garda stations, as part of its inspections. The Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill has been developed on recommendations previously made by the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.

Source: Irish Independent April 27, 2021 01:30 UTC