Garda radio system ‘on verge of collapse’

GARDA radio communications are on the verge of collapse and are no longer secure, members’ representatives have claimed.

The condition of the radio system has been moved to the top of the agenda of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) conference, which begins today, because of its serious state of disrepair, a spokesperson for the GRA said.

Most gardaí no longer use the system as it is not considered secure, the spokesperson added. They rely on mobile phones, which, it is claimed, they pay for themselves.

In parts of the country there are black spots where no communication can be made, according to GRA.

A motion calling on the Garda management to introduce a “proper and functioning radio system” has been tabled. The issue will be debated this morning.

“Over five years ago it was proposed to introduce the digital TETRA [TErrestrial Trunk RAdio] system and the Department of Justice provided funding for two pilot projects in the O’Connell Street area of Dublin and in the traffic department,” the GRA spokesperson said.

“These projects have operated satisfactorily yet the decision to implement the nationwide roll-out of the system has not been taken by the department and it is expected the system will now cost €100 million to install.”

The GRA said two constabularies in Britain tested the system and now all police services there use it.

The TETRA system is secure and more flexible, according to the GRA.

“As a consequence of the delayed introduction of the new digital radio system here, the current radio structure has not been updated nor has any investment been made in its infrastructure, leaving it on the verge of collapse,” the spokesman said.

The conference in Bundoran will last two days and Justice Minister Michael McDowell will address delegates this afternoon.

Included on the agenda is the proposed Garda Bill. Delegates are expected to voice concern over the powers of investigators attached to the office of the Ombudsman. The issue of a claimed lack of a clear complaints procedure when a grievance is made will also be aired.

A debate on the issue of Garda confidence in Mr McDowell will not now take place as delegates who filed the motion believe it is not as crucial an issue as when it was first mooted last November.

But delegates will discuss possible Garda intervention in the event of a prison officers strike.