Written answers

Tuesday, 25 September 2018

Department of Justice and Equality

Garda Stations

Photo of Jim O'CallaghanJim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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219. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the details of the 111 Garda stations not connected to the Garda network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38546/18]

Photo of Jim O'CallaghanJim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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220. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 222 of 12 July 2018, the detail of each Garda station that does not have access to the Internet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38547/18]

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 220 together.

There has been unprecedented investment in An Garda Síochána in recent years, in support of the Government’s commitment to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime.

€1.65 billion has been allocated to the Garda Vote for 2018. This is an increase of approximately 2% over the allocation for 2017.

Further, the Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that Gardaí must have the modern technology and resources necessary to detect and investigate crime and to prevent loss and harm to citizens and their property on a 24/7 basis.

In support of this, €342 million, including €217 million in additional funding under the Capital Plan 2016-2021, is being invested in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021 to enable An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting-edge technologies in delivering professional policing and security services for the community. This investment will allow delivery of a broad range of projects associated with the Garda Modernisation and Renewal Programme.

The Deputy will be aware that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána as well as for decisions in relation to the allocation and management of Garda equipment and resources, including in relation to ICT. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.

There are 565 operational Garda stations in the State. I am informed by the Garda authorities that broadband networks and services are used to connect stations to the Garda network for official purposes. All connections to Garda stations are managed in Telecommunications Division to ensure the speed of the network connection meets the requirements of the particular location.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that a project to enhance network access to rural Garda stations is being progressed under the Modernisation and Renewal Programme.

I understand that 111 stations are currently not connected to the Garda network. I have been advised by the Garda authorities that for operational reasons a list of the 111 stations concerned cannot be provided.

However I can update the Deputy that of this total, I am informed that arrangements for connection of 34 stations are nearing completion. Options are being explored to provide members attached to the remaining stations not yet networked with local access to Garda ICT services. This includes an assessment of the availability or otherwise of local broadband services and/or the provision of mobile technology.

Finally, it is important to note that any member attached to a currently unconnected Garda station can access PULSE at their local district station. Members attached to non-networked locations can also contact the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC) or an associated networked station if required.

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