Vol. 551 No. 2
408 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations in the State; the number of such stations used for interviews with suspects; the number of such stations equipped with apparatus for the audio and video recording of interviews; when the remaining stations will be so equipped; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9789/02]
There is a total of 703 Garda stations throughout the country. I am informed by the Garda authorities that, although there is no rule of law which precludes any station being used for the interviewing of suspects, in practice 175 to 200 stations would be so used.
It is the intention to equip approximately 220 interview rooms in up to 150 Garda stations with the required specialised equipment to facilitate the audio-video recording of interviews with suspects. As of 21 March last, 171 interview rooms in 97 stations had been fitted out and of these 151 interview rooms are in use. I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is expected that the remaining identified stations will be completed over the next 12 weeks.
