New early warning system for missing children agreed

A new early warning Amber Alert system for tracking missing or kidnapped children today got the go-ahead.

Based on the American rapid response, the scheme will allow authorities and media to work together and spread the alarm about a disappeared youngster by sharing photos and information.

Justice Minister Dermot Ahern revealed he had agreed to press ahead with the alert after a report from the Garda Inspectorate.

“It is heartbreaking when a person, and particularly a child, goes missing,” Mr Ahern said.

“Families and friends suffer immeasurable distress. We must do all we can to help locate that missing loved one.

“This will be a challenging task and it will require the support of a whole range of governmental agencies, NGOs, the media as well as the support of the public.”

In her latest report Kathleen O’Toole, the head of the Garda Inspectorate, recommended the initiative which has been backed by Kate and Gerry McCann, parents of missing Madeleine.

The Amber Alert began in the US in 1996 when broadcasters teamed up with local police to develop an early warning system to help find abducted children.

Amber – America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response – was created as a legacy to 9-year-old Amber Hagerman, who was kidnapped while riding her bicycle in Arlington, Texas.

The alert is used in the rare case when it is believed a child has been kidnapped, is in danger and there is enough information to issue a description and it is credited with helping in the recovery of more than 400 abducted kids.

A key component of the American system is the rapid sending of messages on TV, radio, at airports and ports, and via text and email. Another is a well-resourced and trained call centre to receive public calls and then track and forward leads to investigating police.

Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy said: “My commitment as Commissioner is to ensure that we build on the considerable work already done by An Garda Siochána and that we fully embrace the findings of the report and harness international best practice in the area of missing persons.

“An Garda Siochána will move forward committed to working in partnership with governmental and non-governmental organisations dedicated to locating missing persons.”

Last July the Inspectorate, at the request of the Government, began looking at the possibility of setting up a dedicated garda missing persons unit and to review procedures in other countries.

The Inspectorate’s report – 'Missing Persons – Review and Recommendations' – came up with 18 recommendations, including setting up an Amber Alert system.

Kathleen O’Toole, chief inspector, said it was critical that a system be in place when a child vanishes, despite the current strain on the public purse.

“In recommending an Amber Alert system we are satisfied that much can be done without incurring additional cost,” Ms O’Toole said.

“When a child goes missing in high-risk circumstances it is vital that arrangements are in place whereby the Garda Siochána can immediately harness the assistance and support of key government and non-government networks in alerting the community.”

Other recommendations from the Inspectorate include:

The resources of the Garda Missing Persons Bureau be improved.

Specific guidelines be rolled out for call-takers and front line officers.

Updated training for new officers at the garda college, Templemore.

Improve the missing persons website to make it easily accessible for the public.

Co-ordinate efforts with police in Northern Ireland and throughout Europe.

Closer working with the PSNI.

The Commissioner said the recommendations would be urgently addressed.

Mary Nicholson, ISPCC advocacy manager, welcomed the initiative but also called for closer working across Europe including adopting the 116-000 emergency number already in use in Greece and Belgium.