Mr. Mark Toland:

PULSE is a database. It is a good system for recording lots of data but it does not allow one to record the investigation of a crime. The PULSE equivalent that operates in other jurisdictions allows one to record everything that has been done with a crime. Recently attempts have been made to enhance the PULSE system but we feel it should be replaced with a system that is built around case management and crime investigation.

PULSE in itself is not the problem with recording; the problem is a Garda member not putting an entry on to the PULSE system. That is the problem. Once a crime is recorded on PULSE, one can supervise and monitor it. If a Garda member makes an arbitrary decision not to record a crime on PULSE then that is a major issue. We have recommended that the Garda Síochána check its call recording systems so that if someone has rang up to say he or she has been a victim of a sexual assault then the authorities should check to make sure there is a corresponding PULSE record in place. Let us say someone walks into a Garda station and reports child sexual abuse, if that Garda member does not record it immediately then the only two people who know about the abuse are the victim who went to the station and the Garda member. That is a weakness in the system. PULSE relies on a Garda member recording a case immediately. The PULSE system also needs good supervision to make sure that that is done.