2115. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration his plans to introduce legislation to help Gardaí carry out their duty while in pursuit of vehicles that are involved in criminal activity and breaking the law. [25705/26]

I am committed, as Minister, to ensuring that our Gardaí have the resources, equipment, and legislation they need to fulfil their vital policing role and I regularly engage with the Commissioner on these matters.

I can assure the Deputy that relevant legislation is kept under constant review. However, any changes to the Roads Traffic Acts regarding emergency service personnel, including Gardaí, responding to calls for service whilst on duty falls under the remit of Minister O’Brien.

It is also important to note that An Garda Siochana police on a human rights basis and Gardaí must operate within the law. Their response to any incident involves a graduated policing response considering relevant legislation and public safety. We must rely on Garda operational management and frontline Gardaí to use their discretion and judgment. Public confidence in An Garda Síochána depends on members demonstrating the highest level of personal professional standards of behaviour.

Pursuit and interception can pose significant risks, not only to the drivers and passengers of these vehicles, but also to members of the public and local Gardaí in affected communities. A Garda Spontaneous Pursuits Policy was introduced in 2024. This policy aims to provide direction to Gardaí who in the course of their duties, engage in the use of pursuit tactics and pursuit management in order to reduce the risk associated with pursuits and stopping of subject vehicles.

It should also be noted that Gardaí have other enforcement options open to them including investigative expertise to locate and question suspected persons after the fact.