Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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121. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in light of the disruption to the TETRA national communication network from storm Éowyn, the steps he will take to ensure similar disruption does not recur in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12023/25]

Jack Chambers (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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The Tetra communications network was designed to provide a reliable and robust emergency network for the State's emergency personnel with the widest possible coverage and is delivered by Tetra Ireland.

In order to provide maximum coverage and resilience all areas in the country are covered by overlapping service from at least two base stations with battery backup in place for key sites. This level of coverage has allowed service to be provided during previous severe weather events.

The ultimate cause of the disruption seen as a result of Storm Éowyn was the prolonged power outages in the west and north-west of the country. As battery backups were depleted base stations went offline which resulted in service gaps in the affected areas.

My officials are reviewing the issues seen with the network in order to identify what steps can be taken to avoid any repeated issues during future extreme weather events of this scale. This will involve discussions with Tetra Ireland, ESB Networks, DECC and the wider emergency service bodies. Tetra Ireland and ESB Networks have also met directly in order to identify what sites would benefit from additional protection.

Additionally, my officials will be exploring alternate or supplementary means of connection for emergency services.