Joint Policing Committees (JPCs)

What are the responsibilities of JPCs?

All of the partners involved in JPCs have their own distinct perspective and inputs to offer. An Garda Síochána has adopted a proactive approach in developing and maintaining links with key stakeholders. It also provides Central Statistics Office and PULSE crime statistics and publishes a report.

The JPC partners also have their own responsibilities in ensuring that society’s policing needs are effectively met and safe and secure communities maintained.

How many JPCs are in operation?

An Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of a JPC in each of the 114 Local Authority administrative areas. Due to the innovative nature of the JPC scheme and the number to be established, a pilot phase is in operation in 29 Local Authority areas.

What matters cannot be discussed by JPCs?

Matters relating to a specific criminal investigation or prosecution or matters relating to the security of the State. (Section 36 (4), An Garda Síochána Act 2005).

JPCs may not discuss matters which may:-

Endanger security of individual(s)
Relate to an individual
Expose information received in confidence
Prejudice crime prevention or detection

What is the legal basis for JPCs?

Section 35 of An Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of JPCs.

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