Old Garda IT network a disgrace

IT is a national disgrace the Garda Siochana is being forced to use an IT system that was out of date almost 15 years ago.

Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn was right to blast the 20-year-old PULSE and other computer networks as “not fit for purpose”.

It is a positive that Garda management is now willing to admit the failings in the equipment but no great detail has been disclosed about what is being done to improve the situation.

It is time the State started supporting our gardai with appropriate resourcing.

Officers, along with experts, have warned of the problems posed by antiquated kit and the constant drip feed of scandals and mishaps is undermining morale and the effectiveness of the force.

Reports of bad resourcing have clearly not been listened to by the Government and civil servants.

There have been warnings around inadequate uniforms, family saloons used as patrol cars, falling Garda numbers and even officers driven to mental exhaustion.

In recent days there are reports of, at a conservative estimate, seven officers taking their own lives.

The buck stops at the door of the Government to take action and solve these issues. It is embarrassing to Ireland that those who protect us are struggling in a mire of poor governance.

Gardai are fighting to keep on top of international crime networks and they are using antiquated 20-year-old computer systems to do it.

What is needed is robust leadership – once and for all give our protectors the tools they need to tackle crime and keep us safe.