SHRAC Terms of Reference

• To advise on the general strategy for embedding and ensuring compliance with the human rights standards, described in the Human Rights Framework, in all aspects of the work of An Garda Síochána.
• To provide evaluation of compliance of An Garda Síochána with the human rights standards, described in the Human Rights Framework and make appropriate recommendations on ways to strengthen compliance.
• To evaluate delivery and make recommendations on training in human rights in An Garda Síochána.
• To report annually on the work of the committee during the previous year

P.6 Strategy Action – Review of Custody Record Risk Assessment Form C.84 A
The Government report, ‘A Policing Service for the Future; Implementing the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland,’ placed an obligation on An Garda Síochána to carry out an assessment of those most vulnerable in the criminal justice system. In order to progress this objective, the Human Rights Section, in consultation with Dr. Alan Cusack of the University of Limerick, conducted a review of the Custody Record Risk Assessment Form C84 A. This review identified four areas of vulnerability which included alcohol addiction, drug addiction, mental health and neurodiversity. The recommendations contained within the report include how An Garda Síochána may further safeguard vulnerable persons by ensuring that as much information as possible is garnered from the custody processes, and that the member in charge has options available as to how best support the person concerned. Recommendations also require An Garda Síochána to consider specific training for staff in recognising and dealing with vulnerable suspects. The content and recommendations of this report and update on implementation have been presented to the SHRAC, and it has been updated as to the progress of this review at subsequent SHRAC meetings.