Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
1088. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Justice when the review of procedures in relation to the sharing of collision data as referenced in Parliamentary Question No. 229 of 25 July 2023, commenced; when that review is expected to complete; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37424/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the sharing of data with other state agencies. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
I am however advised by the Garda authorities that data in relation to road traffic collisions is the only data supplied to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) by An Garda Síochána. This data is extracted from the Garda PULSE system and provided on a nightly basis. This includes collision details, road details, vehicle details, person details, and any Garda opinion as to the cause of the collision.
I am also advised that data held and provided to partner organisations is collected in line with the Garda Data Quality Framework, which involves both automated and manual reviews of data quality. An Garda Síochána has published data quality statistics on its website since 2022, and the scope and content of these is regularly assessed.
I am informed that An Garda Síochána is also currently developing a new framework for data sharing with the RSA which will be in place in Q4 2023. I am also informed that the Department of Transport will shortly be issuing a Ministerial Directive under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, which will provide a legal framework for data sharing between An Garda Síochána and the RSA.
I understand that once this directive is issued, a Memorandum of Understanding in relation to the scope, frequency and protection of data sharing between the RSA and An Garda Síochána will be put in place. An Garda Síochána is also engaging with other relevant bodies on their requirements for roads policing data. I am advised by the Garda authorities that this structured and secure sharing of information is part of the overall goal of establish a policing data ecosystem, in line with the Garda Data and Technology Vision.
