Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 30 September 2004
198 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself with the reliability of the principal radio communications system which is being used by the gardaí; if his attentions has been drawn to incidents of its having failed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23043/04]
View answer199 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the Tetra radio communications system; the reason it has not been rolled out fully to date; the date by which all members will be using this system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23044/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 198 and 199 together.
I am aware that the existing radio communications system in use by the Garda Síochána is in need of replacement and steps are under way to introduce a replacement digital radio system. In this regard, a pilot digital radio system covering the Dublin north central division and traffic section, Dublin Castle has been completed by the Garda Síochána. Following its successful completion, the Garda Síochána prepared a business case for the extension of the system on a nationwide basis and this was submitted to me by the Garda Commissioner for consideration.
Discussions are ongoing between officials of my Department and Department of Finance on the most appropriate way to progress the project. Until these discussions have concluded, it is not possible to be definitive on an exact date when the system will be expanded beyond the pilot areas. Notwithstanding the decision to be taken on replacing the Garda radio system, and in recognition that the current system must be maintained, significant expenditure has been invested in the existing system. Some €1 million was expended in capital equipment at the end of 2003 with further expenditure taking place this year. This does not take away from the requirement for an enhanced Garda radio system, but it demonstrates my commitment to maintain the existing system in operational use until it can be replaced.
