Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
1042 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda Síochána is considering the use of the TETRA digital radio system; if it had a trial of the system; and if his attention has been drawn to the health problems associated with the system which requires a higher poser output than mobile phone systems at a frequency which can affect brain tissue and problems relating to interference with other broadcast systems. [21537/04]
Amharc ar fhreagra1078 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda Síochána has asked for the introduction of a TETRA system; his views regarding the health effects and interference with television reception of this system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21820/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1042 and 1078 together.
A pilot TETRA system utilising TETRA digital radio technology has been in operation since February 2002 in Dublin north central division and traffic section Dublin Castle. One of the aims of the pilot was to test the relevant technology with a view to extending it on a nationwide basis. Following the successful completion of the pilot project, the Garda Síochána prepared a business case for the extension of the system and this was submitted to me by the Garda Commissioner for consideration.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda medical director, in conjunction with an independent engineering company, was tasked with formulating a report on the possible adverse effects on human health when using TETRA technology. Having sourced and examined numerous worldwide studies on the subject, the conclusion was that measured levels of exposure from TETRA base stations, hand portables and mobile units are well below the guidelines recommended by the International Commissioner on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection, ICNIRP. I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that there is no reason to believe that TETRA systems interfere with other properly installed broadcast or television systems.
