Dr. Geoffrey Shannon:

I would add, if I could, that I felt that there is an openness within the child protection unit in Harcourt Street. I may have been an irritant at times as I continued to pursue, for example, the PULSE data. I was forensic in terms of seeking answers to anomalies in the PULSE data. I am concerned that we have a database where the only element of accountability is inserting details on the PULSE system, particularly if that system is not perfect. One must remember that section 12 is exercised without a court warrant and the accountability that Deputies Ó Laoghaire and Funchion referred to is in ensuring that there is an accurate recording. I found that there was a receptiveness within that unit. I cannot speak for An Garda Síochána but I am giving an honest account. While there are fundamental problems with how PULSE operates, An Garda Síochána, by and large, does a good job when it comes to dealing with emergency child protection.