Vol. 563 No. 2
181 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the recent criticism made by a person (details supplied) of the Garda PULSE computer system, which he described as totally and utterly unreliable in regard to the recording of criminal convictions; the steps being taken to deal with the concerns raised by the person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7330/03]
I am aware of the recent criticisms in relation to the accuracy of information in the PULSE system. I am informed by the Garda authorities that recording of court outcomes is the responsibility of the individual members and is subject to review by supervisory ranks. I am also informed by the Garda authorities that the quality of the recording of court outcomes is constantly monitored by senior Garda management and the Garda criminal records office. Where errors are discovered, the matters requiring attention are highlighted and remedial action taken.
It is planned that when the Garda PULSE system and the courts criminal case tracking system, CCTS, are fully rolled out and the various technical and other issues are addressed, court outcomes will be electronically transferred from the CCTS system to PULSE. This should further reduce the risk of error as well as improving efficiency and effectiveness.
