Policing Authority publishes draft code of ethics for Garda

Gardaí and civilians working for An Garda Síochána would have to commit to opposing unprofessional, unethical or corrupt behaviour under a draft code of ethics published by the Policing Authority.

The independent authority has asked members of the public, employees of An Garda Síochána, civil society organisations and other interested parties to make submissions on the draft code.

Areas covered include commitments to speaking up and reporting wrongdoing within the force, transparency and communication, information and privacy, the use of police powers and respect and equality.

Gardaí and other staff would commit not to commit any act of corruption and to “have the courage to oppose and report all such acts”.

They would also have to commit to carrying out their duties impartially and in the public interest and that they would not be influenced by personal gain.

In addition, gardaí would have to commit to using “less coercive or intrusive” methods before resorting to police powers.

The authority invited preliminary views on the code of ethics in April of this year.

It is particularly seeking views on whether there are any issues of concern not covered by the draft and whether there are any issues which should be addressed differently.

The authority is also seeking examples people think should be included in the code to demonstrate what would constitute good ethical behaviour or alternatively, examples of what would constitute a breach of the code.

The creation of the code, a set of standards which policing is to be run by, was one of the key obligations set out when the Policing Authority was provided for in legislation. It began operating at the beginning of the year.

Chairman Josephine Feehily said in April the new code would build on the existing Garda solemn declaration, under which members pledge to be impartial and apolitical, and the Garda values of honesty, accountability, respect and professionalism.

"It is intended that, once finalised and embedded, the code of ethics will inform the culture and practice of policing in Ireland at every level," she said.

Responses to the draft should be sent by close of business on Friday September 23rd.

Interested parties may email submissions to info@policingauthority.ie or by post to the Policing Authority, Fourth Floor, 90 King Street North, Dublin 7.