April 2023
The Policing, Security and Community Safety Bill introduces important organisational and structural reforms recommended by the Commission on the Future of Policing.
It would establish a Police Ombudsman to replace the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC), an expanded Policing and Community Safety Authority, and a new Independent Examiner of Security Legislation.
However, Garda oversight bodies must be given sufficient powers and independence if they are to ensure Gardaí operate within the law and with respect for human rights. As it stands, ICCL believes this legislation will be a missed opportunity unless some key amendments are made.