Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

66. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the role his Department plays in An Garda Síochána's ICT governance board; the person that represents his Department on this board; the number of meetings they attend on an annual basis; if he is updated on the work of the board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16534/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will be aware that there is regular, detailed and structured engagement between my Department and An Garda Síochána in relation to governance and the Garda reform programme generally, including ICT matters.

I am advised that the Garda Information and Communications Technology Governance Board was established in November 2016, building on a recommendation of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate. I am further advised that the Board discharges its functions in line with its agreed Terms of Reference. Amongst other things, its overall role is to provide strategic direction and oversight for the ICT Programme in the context of the overall Garda reform strategy and to ensure that the portfolio of projects is aligned with the Modernisation and Renewal Programme and is delivering the intended value.

Board meetings are attended by representatives of An Garda Síochána, my Department, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, the Office of the Government Chief Information Officerand the Policing Authority. My Department is represented on the Board by a Principal Officer and an Assistant Principal Officer.

The Board generally meets on a quarterly basis. There have been 5 meetings of the Board since its establishment in November 2016, with a further meeting scheduled for this month.