Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Gallagher. I will provide a detailed update in respect to where we are. I am advised that work is under way involving representatives from the various agencies to prepare to operationalise electronic monitoring. This includes the consideration of technology, data protection, procurement, implementation and operating model design. The project will determine in what order the various legislative provisions should be commenced, having regard to the practical and operational considerations involved with each potential cohort. The important information from the Senator's point of view is that an initial roll-out of electronic monitoring is expected later this year following a procurement exercise to select a service provider. That is good news. It will mean there is another option available for the Judiciary and greater options for the Probation Service and Parole Board. It will have a positive impact on the overcrowding issue within prisons, but as part of the solution. It is not the complete solution.