The death of Garda Kevin Flatley was a “stark” reminder of the risks gardaí face while on duty, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris will tell the Oireachtas justice committee later.
Mr Harris, who is due to brief TDs and senators about the force’s operations, community policing and road safety, will use an appearance before an Oireachtas committee to “reiterate the importance of responsible driver behaviour”.
Garda Flatley, a 49-year-old father of two, was killed on duty last month while policing a speed checkpoint duty near Swords, Dublin.
Izzet Can Berber, the motorcyclist involved in the collision in which Garda Flatley was fatally injured, died in hospital last week from his injuries.
Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman to take part in banned Budapest Pride march
‘I couldn’t think of anything worse to attend’: Some Opposition TDs snub invite to US Independence Day celebration
Colum Eastwood addresses the House of Commons
Paediatric hospital to be known as National Children’s Hospital Ireland under proposals to be considered by Cabinet
“The recent loss of our colleague Garda Kevin Flatley served as a stark reminder of the risks our gardaí face while on duty, but also put into sharp focus the dangers that exist on our roads today,” Mr Harris will tell the committee.
He will note that despite “significant roads policing enforcement”, there had been 70 road deaths so far this year as of June 5th.
“And so, I want to reiterate the importance of responsible driver behaviour,” he will say.
“I appeal to all road users – in the interest of their safety and those around them – that they slow down, never drive under the influence of an intoxicant, wear a safety belt, and never use a mobile phone while driving.”
The committee will also hear the commissioner defend the staff retention rate in An Garda Síochána. He will argue that the rate of resignations from the force is below those in the UK and some European police forces.
Mr Harris will also stress that the Garda’s new operating model, the first time the structure of the force has changed since the 1920s, has been a success – particularly for survivors of domestic violence.
He will also tell the committee that there have so far been 12 prosecutions under a stalking law enacted last year.
