Paul Bradford
Question:416 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the method of compiling crime statistics has changed in 2001; and if so, the way in which crime statistics are compiled at present. [25244/01]
Written Answers. - Crime Statistics.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the method of compiling statistics will change with the publication of the annual report of the Garda Síochána for the year 2000 and subsequent years as input into the report will now be produced by the new PULSE computer technology. I am further informed that PULSE will have a major impact on the management and compilation of all information within the Garda system, including crime details and statistics but, due to the considerable complexity of the technology involved, this change will be introduced on a phased basis over a number of years. In this regard, I understand that the full impact of the PULSE programme, allowing greater detail and analysis of statistical information, will become evident over time as the Garda Síochána moves from recording a relatively small proportion of crime statistics on computer to the position where paper based recording of crime statistics will no longer exist.