7.— (1) The function of the Garda Síochána is to provide F6[policing and security, including vetting, services for the State] with the objective of—

(a) preserving peace and public order,

(b) protecting life and property,

(c) vindicating the human rights of each individual,

(d) protecting the security of the State,

(e) preventing crime,

(f) bringing criminals to justice, including by detecting and investigating crime, and

(g) regulating and controlling road traffic and improving road safety.

(2) For the purpose of achieving the objective referred to in subsection (1), the Garda Síochána shall co-operate, as appropriate, with other Departments of State, agencies and bodies having, by law, responsibility for any matter relating to any aspect of that objective.

(3) In addition to its function under subsection (1), the Garda Síochána and its members have such functions as are conferred on them by law including those relating to immigration.

(4) This section does not affect any powers, immunities, privileges or duties that members of the Garda Síochána have by virtue of any other enactment or at common law.

(5) This section is not to be taken to confer on any person a right in law that he or she would not otherwise have to—

(a) require the Garda Síochána to perform a function or provide a service referred to in this section or to desist from any action, or

(b) seek damages for a member of the Garda Síochána’s performance of, or failure to perform, such function or for his or her provision of, or failure to provide, such service.