Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 3 Nov 1999

Vol. 510 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Stations.

Alan Shatter

Ceist:

134 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the capacity of the new Garda computer and communication systems; if Garda stations have access to the Internet; if not, if it is proposed that they be provided with on-line facilities; if individual Garda stations have an e-mail facility or an intranet facility; and, if not, his proposals in this regard. [21934/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

PULSE, the new Garda computer solution, is set to deliver an integrated suite of 17 operational information systems that will harness the information processing power and presentation options of modern computing technology.

Specifically, PULSE will provide a networked solution to Garda stations, involving direct access to the centralised criminal intelligence database at Garda Headquarters. PULSE does not, however, incorporate facilities for Internet access from Garda stations.

The Garda Síochána operates a website, which is continually monitored and updated and which allows the Garda Press Office to deal with electronic communications from the general public. Moreover, I understand that e-mail facilities are provided to specialised units within the Garda Síochána and to individual Garda users who have a demonstrated need for same.

Developments in web technology are being monitored in the context of possible future developments in information technology within the Garda Síochána.