Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
824. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda stations in County Donegal that do not have full access to high-speed broadband; the timeframe for connection of those stations which do not have broadband access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33358/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that Gardaí must have the modern technology and resources necessary to detect and investigate crime and to prevent loss and harm to citizens and their property on a 24/7 basis.
The Modernisation and Renewal Programme sets out a series of initiatives which will enable An Garda Síochána to deploy the latest cutting-edge technologies in the fight against crime. In support of this plan, some €342 million, including €217 million under the Capital Plan, is being invested in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána as well as for decisions in relation to the allocation and management of Garda equipment and resources, including ICT. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a project to enhance network access to rural Garda stations is being progressed under the Modernisation and Renewal Programme. There are 565 operational Garda stations in the State. Various broadband networks and services are used by An Garda Síochána to connect stations to the Garda network for official purposes. I am advised by the Garda authorities that 111 stations are currently not connected to the Garda network. However any member attached to a currently unconnected station can access PULSE at their local district station and members in non-networked locations can also contact the Garda Information Services Centre or an associated networked station if required.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that 10 Garda stations in Donegal are not connected to the Garda network but which are at an advanced stage to be completed. I understand that these sites are awaiting infrastructure works to allow completion of the connection and that it is currently envisaged that these stations will all be connected by the end of 2018.
