The public’s policing priorities are being sought by a recently-established Garda oversight body, the Policing and Community Safety Authority (PCSA), until June 8 this year.
The PCSA was established April 2 as the new oversight body for An Garda Síochána, as required by the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024.
As part of its responsibility for identifying policing priorities a public consultation was launched on April 29, which is open to all individuals over the age of 16 across Ireland.
“As a member of the communities that An Garda Síochána serves, or as a member of the garda workforce, we want your views on what areas of policing should be prioritised in 2026-2028. All responses are anonymous,” the policing priorities survey webpage reads.
The survey takes 10 minutes to complete, and as a result of being anonymous, can be completed multiple times.
Respondents are asked to allocate 70 points across 24 policing areas. Anywhere from 0-5 points can be spent on each area, with a higher score indicating a higher level of priority and vice versa.
“Not everything can be a priority, so how you allocate your points will show us how you believe policing time, resources, and attention should be prioritised,” the webpage cautions.
Chairperson of the PCSA, Elaine Byrne said that determining the policing priorities for An Garda Síochána is an “important element” of the body’s work.
“The Policing Priorities, when determined, provide clarity on the key areas that require particular attention to improve policing services to the public. They will also highlight the areas within which PCSA oversight will focus and set the context for the Commissioner’s development of An Garda Síochána’s Strategic Plan and Annual Service Plan.
“This public consultation offers an excellent opportunity for people to have their say on what they believe An Garda Síochána should prioritise. It is important that communities and individuals have an opportunity to input into the development of the priorities. Including more voices and perspectives will help significantly to determine what policing best delivers a sense of safety and security in the community,” she said.