Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I agree technology resources continue to be an essential tool in supporting the gardaí in their day to day work. I am determined the gardaí will have access to state of the art technology in carrying out their duties. In particular, the Garda Síochána will deploy the latest technology to enhance its capability to effectively tackle gangland crime. A new national digital radio system is being implemented over the next two years. Over 17,000 radios will be provided for gardaí in Garda vehicles and other locations. The development of a new major incidents system will automate many of the functions currently being performed manually when a major incident occurs. The roll out of a new automated fingerprint identification system for the Garda technical bureau is virtually completed. The procurement of a new automated ballistic identification system is underway.

Last week the Garda Commissioner announced significant enhancements to the way in which the investigation of major crimes will be managed by the gardaí. In addition to the appointment of 21 divisional detective inspectors and additional regional detective superintendents, a senior investigating officer will take charge of each serious crime investigation, and each serious crime will also have a designated incident room co-ordinator.

Combating gun crime, organised crime and drug trafficking requires a sustained and long-term effort. There is no quick-fix solution but the Government is committed to continuing to resource the force to face these challenges.

See this speech in context