Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 July 2018
221. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of operating Garda stations; the number of those stations which are not connected to the PULSE system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31712/18]
View answer222. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations that do not have access to the Internet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31713/18]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 222 together.
The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that Gardaí must have the modern technology and resources necessary to detect and investigate crime and to prevent loss and harm to citizens and their property on a 24/7 basis.
The Modernisation and Renewal Programme sets out a series of initiatives which will enable An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting-edge technologies in the fight against crime. In support of this plan, some €342 million, including €217 million under the Capital Plan, is being invested in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána as well as for decisions in relation to the allocation and management of Garda equipment and resources, including ICT. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are 564 operational Garda stations in the State.
I am further advised that a project to enhance network access to rural Garda stations is being progressed under the Modernisation and Renewal Programme. 111 stations are currently not connected to the Garda network so to allow access to Garda ICT services including PULSE. However, any member attached to a currently unconnected station can access PULSE at their local district station. Members in non-networked locations can also contact the Garda Information Services Centre (GISC) or an associated networked station if required.
Garda authorities inform me that of these 111 stations, connectivity for 34 is now nearing completion. An Garda Síochána is also at the early stages of planning for the connection of an additional 12 stations. This work is due to be completed before the end of 2018.
I am further informed that An Garda Síochána is engaged in planning connectivity solutions for the remaining 65 stations, taking into account factors such as local access to broadband services and the potential for mobile connectivity.
