An Garda Síochána has today commenced the third and final phase of its ‘Proof of Concept’ for Body Worn Cameras as well as the supporting Digital Evidence Management System.
The Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris was joined at Waterford Garda Station in Waterford City this morning by the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee T.D to launch the third and final phase of a proof of concept for body-worn cameras. The cameras launched today are Motorola Solutions V500 cameras.
This brings the number of stations using body-worn cameras to five, and brings the total number of body-worn cameras available for use nationally to 600, across four proof-of-concept stations - Limerick (200); Kevin Street (50); Pearse Street (50); and Store Street (100).
Nationally, to date, there are in excess of 600 Gardaí fully trained in their use, with almost 150 Gardaí fully trained in the use of the cameras in Waterford.
The body-worn cameras will be housed in their own docking room in Waterford station where each member can take out a camera by swiping their RFID card.
Speaking to WLR News, Justice Minister Helen McEntee said the cameras have proven successful in other areas.
"We are also seeing in stop-and-search scenarios how important the cameras have been in gathering evidence. It's also important for keeping our Gardaí safe and making sure that they can conduct their job in a safe manner."We have already seen in certain instances where accusations have been made to Gardai, that the footage counteracted such instances."
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris was also present at the briefing, adding" Today’s launch marks the final stage in our proof of concept phase which brings us one step closer to the implementation of Information-Led Policing.
"It follows extensive consultation with over 20 other police services around the world and the commencement of the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023 – which includes the Codes of Practice for their operation.
"The proof of concept will continue with a period of analysis and engagement with the frontline members. This will help us to understand and evaluate the cameras and Digital Evidence Management System. We will also continue to engage with the DPP to assess how this video evidence can be utilised in the prosecution of cases through the Courts,” he said.
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