Vol. 529 No. 4
211 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the total cost to the State of the witness protection programme; the total number of persons on this programme; if such people have the right to determine where they reside; the wider security implications for the general community in which persons on the programme reside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2934/01]
The cost of the witness security programme has been: 1998, £41,608; 1999, £86, 373; 2000, £149,704. The programme is under the direct operational control and administration of the Garda authorities and the operational arrangements of the programme must, by their nature, remain absolutely confidential. Accordingly, it would not be appropriate to disclose information relating to the operation of the programme.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are no adverse security implications for the general community where persons on the programme may be living.
