Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 15 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 1

Written Answers. - Garda Interviews.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

120 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in relation to the proposed installation of equipment to allow for the video taping of interviews with persons in Garda custody; the number of Garda stations currently equipped with such facilities; the total number of stations in which it is proposed to install the equipment; the proposed timeframe in this regard; whether there is foot dragging and a lack of will on the part of the gardaí to see the introduction of such recording; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25768/00]

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

I refer the Deputy to my answer to a priority question on this subject earlier this afternoon.

In the course of my earlier reply today I said that in response to recent questions on this matter, I clearly indicated,inter alia, the number of stations which have facilities for audio-video recording Garda interviews with detained people, the extent of the system envisaged and the timeframe involved to ensure, at the outset, that a broad national coverage is provided as soon as is practical.

Completion of the evaluation of the tenders received for the specialised recording equipment, and placing a contract with a supplier is scheduled for early next month. Delivery and installation of the equipment should commence in the first quarter of next year, by which time I would expect that up to 130 interview rooms will have been refurbished and suitably fitted out.

I can assure this House that I am fully satisfied that the Garda authorities are progressing the practical steps involved, some of which I have just outlined, with the necessary urgency.