Gardaí set to unveil more secure radio communication system

GARDAÍ are set to get a new radio system in Cork city early next year.

It will replace the current radio system which has been described by the AGSI (Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors) as being problematic and archaic.

Chief superintendent Michael Finn, who is in charge of the city division, confirmed the new digital TETRA radio system will be installed in the district in early spring.

He said he was delighted that the new radio link will be installed as it was a secure, encrypted, system.

Concerns have been raised in the past by the AGSI and the Garda Representative Association (GRA) that the current system was a security risk.

It is believed that criminals equipped with scanners have been listening to communications between gardaí on the radios used in the city. The system has security implications as they could monitor where gardaí are and how long it takes them to respond to incidents.

In recent times, gardaí have been using their own mobile phones to stay in touch with each other and prevent eavesdropping.

AGSI national treasurer Sergeant Willie Gleeson said gardaí had been looking for the TETRA system for several years.

“I suppose we have been seeking it for the best part of a decade. The system we have is problematic and obsolete,” Sgt Gleeson said.

He said the TETRA system can be used as both a secure radio or phone line. “It’s a godsend as far as we are concerned,” he said.

He will be one of the main people operating TETRA as he works in the communications room in Anglesea Street Garda Station.