Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will recall that at the time he raised this concern, I received a report from the Commissioner on that issue and how it was being handled by An Garda Síochána and, in fact, she was prioritising that area at the time. I certainly can get an update for the Deputy. As for the €3 million in question, I believe it is for separate, more basic ICT, as opposed to being specifically for that area. However, this area has been prioritised and, for example, a former member of An Garda Síochána who is working with Interpol is one of the world's experts with regard to child sexual abuse online. There is much work being done between police forces and An Garda Síochána has been involved in a number of highly significant investigations in the past year. I am confident it is working effectively in this area. However, from all the information I have, I note one cannot be complacent because criminal networks increasingly are using highly sophisticated computer technology, including highly sophisticated encryption, which poses a real challenge to police forces in Ireland, the United States and elsewhere. I am informed that a system is in the process of being procured by an Garda Síochána in respect of that specific area. However, I will get an update on that subject and will forward it to the Deputy.