Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 March 2023
226. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been secured for the issuing of new mobile fingerprint devices to frontline gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14225/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), which includes all operational policing decisions regarding Garda ICT infrastructure. The Commissioner is also the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote under the provisions of the Act and is responsible for the economy and the efficiency of the Garda Síochána in using its resources. As Minister I have no role in these independent functions.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that, at present, it is not possible to add mobile fingerprint identification devices to the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
I am also advised that a program of work is currently underway to upgrade AFIS in order to provide a supported platform for the next number of years. This upgrade of AFIS, which the Garda authorities expect to be completed in Q2 2023, will support the addition of mobile fingerprint identification devices.
I can assure the Deputy that this Government will continue to support An Garda Síochána and ensure that they have the necessary resources to carry out their duties. This is evident in the unprecedented allocation of €2.14 billion provided to An Garda Síochána in Budget 2023. This includes the provision for an extra €11 million for new Garda mobile devices, apps and specialist equipment. Additionally, there was an extra €21 million for ICT capital in 2023.
