I propose to take Questions Nos. 388 and 389 together.
The procurement of a managed digital radio service is well advanced by the CMOD division of the Department of Finance, which is undertaking the procurement on behalf of the Garda Síochána and other blue light and State agencies. It is proposed to roll out the new Garda digital radio system this year.
As is appropriate in any major technological project, a risk analysis and management strategy is being developed by the Garda Síochána as part of its overall implementation plans to support the system implementation and service migration for when a service provider has been selected. This risk analysis and management strategy, which forms part of the migration and roll-out planning is intended to ensure the minimum of disruption to the service and, as the new technology is implemented, these plans will be kept under review and updated accordingly.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are a wide range of advantages of digital radio systems over the older analogue systems. Chief among these are the additional security features inherent in digital systems when compared with analogue systems which are prone to be scanned by commercially available scanning devices. In addition, digital radio has a number of key functions relating to improving the safety of officers on operational duties, such as single button emergency calls.
The provision of a nationwide system also opens the opportunity for improved communications between groups of officers as required, regardless of their geographical location. It also affords the opportunity for improved efficiency and effectiveness by enabling the number of command and control centres operated by the Garda to be rationalised. In addition, the system will enable cross-Border obligations, as well as international obligations under the Schengen Agreement in the area of improved telecommunications between police forces, to be met.
As with any major system such as this, a major investment will require to be made. However, the approach adopted of using the outsourced service provision model is the best in ensuring value for money for the project. In addition, the approach allows for the participation of other blue light and State agencies. This should have the effect of spreading the cost across the Government organisations which will be using the system, as well as providing for cross-agency communication for major incidents.
With regard to the specifics regarding security, the type of encryption that falls to be implemented will remain secret for operational reasons. I understand that modern digital radio networks have multiple levels of security which have been adopted internationally by other police forces, and it is planned that these or similar approaches will also be adopted in this jurisdiction to the level that meets with operational needs.