124. Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration when regulations for drug testing of serving Garda members will be finalised and introduced. [74602/26]

Jim O'Callaghan, Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration: The vast majority of members of An Garda Síochána serve the State with distinction, professionalism and integrity throughout their careers. It is essential that the culture within any disciplined organisation, including An Garda Síochána, is one that promotes the highest standards of conduct and makes clear that inappropriate behaviour has no place within the organisation.

Professionalism, integrity and accountability are core values that are instilled from the earliest stages of Garda training and reinforced throughout every rank and grade of the organisation. Maintaining public trust and confidence requires a continued commitment to these values at every level of An Garda Síochána.

Officials from my Department are working closely with An Garda Síochána and with drafters in the Office of the Attorney General to finalise the Regulations which will underpin testing for controlled drugs and psychoactive substances. The Regulations are complex and have required thorough consideration but are now at an advanced stage of drafting.

It is hoped that the Regulations will soon be finalised and it will then be open to An Garda Síochána to fully implement this new testing regime.