13. Deputy Michael Conaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of best practice in other jurisdictions and to enhance transparency and accountability in our policing infrastructure if he will consider establishing a policing board as a matter of urgency. [19070/14]

At a recent meeting the Government established a new Cabinet Committee on Justice Reform to oversee the development of proposals for an independent police authority and to have this new body in place by the end of 2014.

The Cabinet Committee is chaired by the Taoiseach and it also comprises the Tánaiste, the Minister for Justice and Equality and the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. In addition, the Attorney General attends the meetings of the Committee.

The Cabinet Committee has commenced its work and the Deputy can be assured that the police authority project will be taken forward on a priority basis, including the enactment of the new legislation that will be required.