Longford councillor in calls for streamlining of Garda vetting process

The decision was made after a response from Justice Minister, Simon Harris, indicated that the responsibility for the governance of the process lies in Comissioner Harris' hands.

The original letter from Longford County Council to Minister Harris asked him to consider an 'one for all' Garda vetting process will now be forward to Garda Comissioner Drew Harris.

It was raised by Cllr Paul Ross (FG) pictured, who said at present volunteers seeking Garda vetting may have to go through the process multiple times if they are involved in different organisations or workplace.

Councillor Ross has described the current system of vetting as “outdated”.

He said the vetting process can take up to four weeks depending on the time of the year, and has to be undertaken in each individual instance for each role.

When Minister's Harris reply was noted at the April meeting of the authority Cllr Ross said: “I propose that we forward the motion on to the Garda Commissioner.”

The proposal was seconded by Cllr Uruemu Adejinmi (FF).