Multiple Garda vetting for Laois sport volunteers 'crazy ridiculous situation'

A Laois county councillor has slammed the Garda vetting system for community volunteers as a "crazy, ridiculous situation".

Currently, anyone who volunteers to work around children or vulnerable people must apply for Garda vetting, to confirm they have no criminal record, or any history that might pose a threat. If they volunteer in multiple places, they have to apply for separate vetting for each organisation.

Cllr Tommy Mulligan from Portlaoise Municipal District has proposed what he believes is a "simple solution".

He tabled a motion to the March 31 monthly meeting of Laois County Council, asking for an urgent reform of the process.

He described the situation.

"I see it in GAA teams and at training, I hear the frustration. Soccer, basketball, GAA, every organisation, there is a whole frustration with how long it takes. It's a crazy ridiculous situation.

"It could be easily solved with some sort of a database, like a Garda card or number. It could be renewed on an annual basis. It's a simple solution. Most of those organisations involve volunteers. We should be encouraging people to get involved, not putting obstacles in their way," he said.

Cllr Mulligan's motions asked the council to request that the National Vetting Bureau to An Garda Síochána, to urgently reform it so that one annual renewable clearance covers all organisations.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley seconded the motion.

"It's the multiple requirement. I've no issue with an annual thing," she said.

Cllr Barry Walsh supports the call.

"I'm in soccer, basketball and GAA clubs. We are trying to encourage coaches. This is a step in their way. Safeguarding should be centralised to cover all sports. It's hard enough to get volunteers," he said.

Cllr Paddy Buggy and Cllr Aisling Moran also agree with the suggestion.

A letter will now be sent to the National Vetting Bureau.

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On their website, An Garda Síochána explain what vetting is.

"Garda Vetting is conducted in respect of any person who is carrying out work or activity, a necessary and regular part of which consists mainly of the person having access to, or contact with, children or vulnerable persons. We will make such enquiries with An Garda Síochána or a Scheduled Organisation, as we deem necessary, to establish whether there is any criminal record or specified information relating to the applicant. We do not make decisions in respect of the suitability of an applicant for a position; this is the sole responsibility of the registered organisation."