John Curran (Dublin Mid West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 407: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations with video recording equipment; the likely cost of installation of such equipment in those Garda stations without it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12032/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that the cost of providing audio-video facilities is dependent on a number of factors, including the provision of suitable, if necessary refurbished, accommodation in Garda stations. It was never the intention that all Garda stations be equipped with audio-video facilities for recording the questioning of detained persons. Rather, the intention was that a sufficient number of Garda stations be so equipped to ensure a broad nationwide coverage. I am advised by the Garda authorities that 130 Garda stations are equipped and are in use.

I am also assured by the Garda authorities that, with the putting in place of additional units of equipment in a number of stations which already have the facility, there are a sufficient number of Garda stations in all Garda divisions to ensure that all interviews as specified in the Criminal Justice Act 1984 (Electronic Recording of Interviews) Regulations 1997 are recorded. In that regard, I am informed by the Garda authorities that a working group has been established to review the provision of these facilities.

The Deputy might wish to note that in its recent report to me, which was laid before the Houses before being made public, the steering committee on audio and audio-video recording of Garda questioning of detained persons noted the very high rate of audio-video recording of interviews. During the period January to November 2003, a total of 16,126 interviews were conducted as provided for in the regulations, of which 15,032, or 96% of the total, were recorded. Of the percentage not recorded, 1.5% was as a result of equipment being in use or interview rooms not being available, and this issue is now being addressed by the Garda Síochána on foot of the report.