Senator Dee Ryan Calls for Electronic Tagging Pilot for Limerick
Published on: 10 July 2026
Fianna Fáil Senator for Limerick City Dee Ryan has called on the Government to select Limerick as a location for Ireland's planned electronic tagging pilot.
Raising the issue in the Seanad while seeking an update on the Government's plans to introduce electronic monitoring as part of the justice system, Senator Ryan said Limerick was an ideal location for a pilot.
Senator Ryan said:
"I believe Limerick should be considered as the location for Ireland's electronic tagging pilot, our gardai are innovative and experienced in pilots having recently participated in the Community Access Support Team (CAST a partnership with Mental health professionals and the Gardai), Bodyworn cameras and the upcoming taser trial.
"Communities deserve every available tool to strengthen public safety. Electronic monitoring has the potential to improve compliance with bail and temporary release conditions while giving the courts another option to protect the public.
"The reality is that not everyone who comes before the courts is appropriate for a prison sentence. At the same time, protecting the public and ensuring compliance with the law must remain paramount.
"Where appropriate, electronic monitoring can allow individuals to remain in the community while ensuring they comply with the conditions of their bail or temporary release."
Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan has previously indicated his strong support for the introduction of electronic monitoring, and secured €2.1 million in Budget 2026 to support staffing, procurement and other implementation costs.
Senator Ryan went on to say:
"Electronic tags will act as a deterrent and change behaviour in some cases, and they will provide clear evidence of how offenders are behaving when out on bail or temporary release.
"The public need to know that we are using every tool at our disposal to reduce risk and keep people safe and that's where electronic monitoring can come in.
"This is about striking the right balance between protecting the public, ensuring accountability and making the best use of prison capacity.
"The people of Limerick deserve the very best when it c
