Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 December 2018
243. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the budget allocation to the Garda information and communications technology budget in each of the years 2016, 2017 and to date in 2018; and the amount allocated for same in 2019. [53545/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the resources provided by Government to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2019 of €1.76 billion. This represents an increase of over 6% over the initial allocation for 2018.
Very significant capital investment is also being made in An Garda Síochána, including investment of €342 million in Garda ICT infrastructure between 2016 and 2021.
The Programme for a Partnership Government recognises that Gardaí must have the modern technology and resources necessary to detect and investigate crimes, and to prevent loss and harm to citizens and their property on a 24/7 basis. A broad range of ICT projects are being delivered to support and further develop existing ICT systems as well as to support Garda reform and enhance efficiency.
Under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Commissioner is the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote and as such is responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources at his disposal. As such, decisions in relation to the allocation and management of Garda equipment and resources, including ICT, are a matter for the Commissioner. I, as Minister, have no direct role in that matter.
I am informed that the budgetary allocation to Garda ICT for 2016 was €53,483,000; for 2017 was € 42,225,000 and for 2018 was € 43,122,000.
The overall 2019 capital investment in An Garda Síochána amounts to some €92 million, representing an increase of over €30 million as compared to 2018. It is currently intended that this will facilitate investment of approximately €65 million in Garda ICT (and essential accommodation works to facilitate same).
This capital investment is a key enabler in the ongoing reform programme and is in support of the Government’s commitment to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country, to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime.
