Concern over errors in files sent to DPP

THE Taoiseach and the Fianna Fail leader expressed concern at errors in prosecution files sent to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Mr Bertie Ahern asked Mr Bruton if he was concerned about the number of cases which could not be processed because of administrative errors in drafting. He said this had been highlighted recently by the DPP.

"Yes, I am indeed," replied Mr Bruton. "There seems to be a problem, particularly in the nature of the files coming from the Garda in some cases."

He said a special group established to deal with the problem had met earlier in the day and hoped to report within three months on the action needed to ensure that all papers or evidence supplied to the DPP were provided in a form that was usable so that there were no delays.

Mr Ahern asked if there was any training programme for gardai to show them the kind of errors which were involved. "The DPP obviously feels that they are quite basic errors. Those producing the papers feel that they are doing it to the best of their ability."

Mr Bruton said the preparation of papers for prosecution was one of the fundamental responsibilities of any member of the Garda. "It is basic to the operation of the force and one of the things that informs all of the work of gardai, and it is central to the training they receive in Templemore.

Some of the problems simply related to the putting of wrong dates on papers, a simple absence of adequate care being taken and not an indication of any training deficiency.

He said he was sure there were areas where further training, or refresher training, would be appropriate for members of the Garda. Efforts, if necessary, would be made to deal with this.

He added that the Garda was now the subject of a major examination, in the context of the Strategic Management Initiative, and it would also deal with the issue.