Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 181: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the necessary equipment for the implementation of digital recording of Garda interviews will be in place; the estimated cost of the equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42057/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The current analogue system is in accordance with recommendations contained in the third report of the Steering Committee on Audio and Audio/Video Recording of Garda Questioning of Detained Persons. Garda authorities inform me that consequently, there is no proposal at present to purchase digital equipment for the recording of Garda interviews.

With regard to future and additional requirements the Department has recently approved Garda proposals for the provision of additional systems and fit-out of further interview rooms and a procurement exercise for this work is currently under way.

Where a Garda station is not equipped with an audio/video system, a person to be interviewed in accordance with the Regulations will be taken to the nearest Garda station with such equipment. The provision of additional facilities will reduce the need to transport persons away from the investigating Station for the purposes of recording interviews.