Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 65: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the powers to establish full interoperability of the radio communication systems between An Garda Síochána and the Police Service of Northern Ireland have been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46123/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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On 29th April 2002, the Irish and British Governments signed an Agreement on Police Co-operation providing a framework for the implementation of certain Patten recommendations including the establishment and enhancing of fast, effective and reliable communication links between the Garda Síochána and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) through improved radio communications and compatible Information Technology systems.

The National Digital Radio Service, which is currently being rolled out to members of the Garda Síochána, will enable such enhanced interoperability for radio communications with the PSNI. Rollout of the service is ongoing and is being implemented on a Garda Region by Region basis. As an interim measure, certain radio communications facilities are being put in place with the PSNI and further enhancement of radio communication interoperability will take place when nationwide rollout of the digital radio service, particularly in the Northern Region, is achieved.