Vol. 491 No. 2
17 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform whether the gardaí have the most modern technology available to them; the deficiencies, if any, there are in this area; the proposals, if any, he has to meet these deficiencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11485/98]
I have always supported the provision of all the equipment and technology necessary for the gardaí to do their job in an efficient and cost effective way. In recent years the gardaí have been, or are in the process of being provided with: an air support unit, including a fixed wing aircraft and helicopter equipped with the most modern technology; closed circuit television schemes in Dublin and Tralee; sophisticated speed and traffic detection technology; a digital telecommunications system; a comprehensive and modern computer system PULSE, Police Using Leading Systems Effectively; a variety of operational devices such as the Stinger and a computerised fingerprint identification system, AFIS.
Obviously, the provision of technology is an ongoing matter and as issues arise they are addressed. I am not aware of any area where a particular deficiency has been identified but has not been addressed.
