Garda Síochána (Powers) Bill 2026: Committee Stage (Resumed)
Seanad Éireann — 2026-05-26
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Joe Flaherty (FF), Nominated by the Taoiseach

As we discuss privilege and the pros and cons on both sides, I am very taken by the debate. I think there are adequate safeguards there to protect it but I am reminded of the late Vincent Gill, a notorious journalist in Longford provincial papers in the 1950s, who was probably one of Senator McDowell's "yahoos". He was also an alcoholic who frequently had run-ins with An Garda Síochána. They got him barred from Granard one time and he decided to just publish a page of black ink that said "Granard at night". He had another swipe back at the Garda when he was particularly aggrieved by a local sergeant who was promoted to inspector. Mr. Gill published details of his promotion but the headline was "Town Improvements". It would be interesting to see how the Garda would use its powers if Vincent Gill was still here.
On a more serious note, the Bill does seek to consolidate modernised policing powers, specifically in relation to search warrants, stop-and-search procedures and the treatment of suspects in custody. It is certainly a response to many of the supports and policing powers long sought by serving members of An Garda Síochána and the general public.
If Senators will indulge me, I will make some points that will speak to all amendments to and sections of the Bill. Before I say what I have to say, I will preface it by saying that I heartily welcome the recent appointment of Justin Kelly as Garda Commissioner. I passionately believe he is the right man for the job but I worry he has inherited a disillusioned, frustrated and far from motivated police force. I will elaborate on the point later but it is important. I understand there is a very clear divide between the Minister's office and his capacity and the management of An Garda Síochána, which is ultimately the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner, but we are seeing a drip-feeding of court cases in regard to personnel issues and mismanagement within An Garda Síochána. That is very concerning and disconcerting.
I would welcome if the Minister could tell us whether he is aware of all outstanding disciplinary issues within the Garda, and of all civil court cases pertaining to HR issues within the Garda, and also any-----

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Record URI: https://data.oireachtas.ie/akn/ie/debateRecord/seanad/2026-05-26/debate/main
Retrieved: 2026-08-14T04:54:59+00:00
Sitting date: 2026-05-26