Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 130: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether sufficient Garda and Army resources are being dedicated to combat the ongoing threat of attack by armed gangs on cash-in-transit deliveries. [9048/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The security of cash in transit deliveries is an issue the Government takes extremely seriously. A number of measures have been adopted in recent years to improve security in this area.

The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot comment on Garda Síochána operational plans to prevent attacks on cash-in-transit deliveries.

Nevertheless, I can say that there are a range of measures in place to combat the threat. The Private Security Authority has commenced licensing of companies engaged in cash-in-transit. The licensing regime put in place incorporates security measures as set out by the relevant branch of the Garda Síochána. Furthermore, there are regular and ongoing discussions between the Gardaí and cash-in-transit industry stakeholders to ensure continued security of deliveries of cash. The Deputy will be aware of a number of cases where attempted robberies from cash-in-transit deliveries were foiled.

The Deputy will appreciate that decisions on the level of security provided for cash-in-transit vehicles are made by the Gardaí having taken all material facts into consideration. Where it is judged to be appropriate, the assistance of the Army is sought for a particular cash consignment. Recovery of the costs of such escorts is the subject of agreements between the Government and the Irish Banking Federation.

I am satisfied that sufficient resources are available to the Garda Síochána in their ongoing efforts to combat the criminal threat to cash movements.