Written answers

Thursday, 17 April 2008

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Garda Equipment

5:00 pm

Photo of Caoimhghín Ó CaoláinCaoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 21: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the development of a secure digital radio system for An Garda Síochána; and the reason for the long delay in introducing this essential policing tool. [13993/08]

Photo of Ulick BurkeUlick Burke (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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Question 43: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in respect of the national roll out of a digital radio facility for An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14126/08]

Photo of Brian Lenihan JnrBrian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 43 together.

Following the completion of a pilot Digital Radio project by the Garda authorities, a decision was taken to procure a single nationwide digital radio service for use by the Garda authorities, other emergency services and non-commercial State bodies. This enables economies of scale as well as allowing for inter-agency communication in the event of major incidents or cross agency operations. Following completion of the tender processes by the Department of Finance a preferred bidder, TETRA Ireland Ltd, was selected. In order to ensure that the preferred bidder demonstrate its capability to deliver this key service for the emergency services, both from a technical and organisational perspective, a service performance evaluation covering a significant part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region and surrounds, including Dublin Port and the Airport, was carried out and completed satisfactorily late last year.

In parallel with the performance evaluation, detailed and intensive contract negotiations have been taking place between the Department of Finance and the preferred bidder. I understand these negotiations are virtually finalised and that the contract will be signed very shortly. I am also advised that preparation and planning by the Garda authorities is well advanced and implementation will closely follow the rollout of the infrastructure by the preferred bidder. The entire nationwide rollout is expected to be completed over a 2 year period.

I might add that the Garda authorities continue to maintain its existing radio infrastructure including the digital radio system servicing significant parts of the Dublin Metropolitan Region and its analogue systems throughout the country.

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