Ciarán Cuffe (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party)
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Question 65: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which he intends to ensure continuous improvement in operational standards on the part of the financial institutions and the cash-in-transit security companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15687/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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A voluntary code of practice, which sets out the agreed principles and minimum standards for the movement of cash was signed on 24 June 2005. Its objective is to encourage the highest standards of operation and, having due regard to the specific circumstances of each organisation, the implementation of integrated end-to-end solutions to create safe secure and efficient cash handling.

The requirements of the code took effect on the date of signing and were to be implemented in full by the stakeholders as soon as possible thereafter, but not later than 31 December 2006. The code does not preclude stakeholders from taking more stringent measures than those provided for in the code.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the implementation process is well under way and all stakeholders are actively sourcing improved methods of cash delivery, collection and storage which will be in keeping with the physical, electronic and procedural requirements of the code.

The Garda Síochána, working in co-operation with representatives from each of the stakeholder groups, financial institutions and CIT service providers has developed draft guidance notes for the installation of physical, electronic, and procedural security enhancements throughout their entire networks. Also, with the assistance of the Garda Síochána, each stakeholder has commenced risk assessments of its various locations: branches, off-site ATMs, bunkers and cash centres. These assessments have highlighted various risks and hazards associated with such locations and will also attempt to identify ways and means to control or eliminate such risks or hazards for the future.

While all of this represents significant progress, there have been recent incidents where serious lapses in standards occurred. I have spoken to the Garda Commissioner and the chief executive of the Private Security Authority to discuss what further can be done to ensure that the cash-in-transit industry in Ireland is operating to the highest international standards. I support the decision of the chief executive of the Private Security Authority, who has indicated her intention to bring forward, at the earliest opportunity, mandatory licensing for the cash-in-transit sector of the security industry. I also confirmed with her that strict adherence to the code of practice will be an integral part of the licensing regime and companies who do not comply with the code of practice will not be licensed to operate in the cash movement sector.