The Policing Authority recognised early in 2021 that while the impact and challenges of COVID-19 continued, the Authority response to said challenges had adapted since the onset nine months previously. The focused assessment of policing performance related to COVID-19 continued but the Authority’s robust oversight of the Garda Síochána also focussed on a number of other topics in 2021. This included the invalid and unwarranted closure of CAD/999 incidents, Garda integrity, drugs policing, and the Garda response to sexual offences and domestic abuse. This work was informed by engagement with Garda Síochána, Joint Policing Committees (JPC), research and the further enhancement of our stakeholder engagement programme.

P.32 Drugs policing in the community: Detailed engagement was completed with Garda Síochána management, front-line Garda Síochána (Divisional Drug Units in 13 Divisions), and with communities. Preliminary report provided to Members and the PSP Committee. Matters for further engagement in 2022 have fed into business planning.