Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 20: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement detailing the availability of internet facilities to members of An Garda Síochána across the State and the level of e-literacy amongst the force; and if he will make provisions for more facilities and training to ensure that the work of Gardaí will no longer be unnecessarily hindered by the absence of same. [12978/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the Garda Information System (GIS) which includes, inter alia, access to PULSE, the Garda National Immigration Bureau Systems and Email is also used to deliver internet access to members where operational needs require.

Training in information technology is provided both in the Garda College and in the Continuous Professional Development Centres around the country and is kept under constant review. All Gardaí graduating from the Garda college receive comprehensive training in the use of the information technology available through the Garda Information System. The Garda College is currently developing an e-learning training programme which will utilise virtual learning environments to deliver various aspects of the overall training requirements for the Force. The system is currently being piloted with student Gardaí in the College.

In addition, internet facilities are currently being rolled out to all Continuous Professional Development Centres in the Force which provides for the continued development training of both student and attested Gardaí throughout their careers. All staff in these centres are proficient in computer applications. A comprehensive programme of training is also provided for all members before any major information system is deployed in the Force. The degree to which internet facilities and additional IT training required is ultimately a matter for Garda management to decide based on operational needs.