Written answers

Tuesday, 8 July 2014

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Investigations

Photo of Pádraig Mac LochlainnPádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein)
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625. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide an update on the concerns in relation to the resource and IT limitations of the computer crime investigation unit of the Garda Síochána that has led to serious delays in prosecuting persons suspected of having images of child abuse stored on their computers. [29130/14]

Photo of Frances FitzgeraldFrances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will appreciate that the provision and deployment of Garda resources, including to specialist units, is a matter for the Acting Garda Commissioner. In that regard, he will be aware that the Acting Commissioner has directed an immediate, comprehensive review and strategic realignment of Garda capacity to deal with emerging crime of this nature. In addition, the Acting Commissioner has recently put in place a number of new structures, processes and procedures, for implementation with immediate effect within the Computer Crime Investigation Unit, to address the issues of concern which have arisen regarding processing times. I am advised that this will immediately halt the growth in outstanding cases and begin to address the backlog.

These measures include the introduction of new 'triage' arrangements so as to maximise use of skilled resources, prioritisation of training to ensure a further 8 Forensic Examiners are fully trained and operational by end July, and a new approach to the management of the process which will double the closure rate by the end of the third quarter of 2014. Investment in high powered computers is also to be accelerated, and structures are to be put in place for fast-tracking cases that require early intervention. I am further advised that an in-depth review of this approach will be concluded by end 2014 to ensure that the desired increase in output is being delivered.

As I have previously indicated to the Deputy, I am determined to ensure that we are in a position to respond effectively to the abuse of children through child pornography and therefore very much welcome these proactive and practical steps being taken by the Acting Commissioner. My Department will remain in regular contact with the Garda authorities concerning their impact, and with respect to the broader review which the Acting Commissioner has also initiated.

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