Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
23. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Justice the number of new Garda recruits allocated to counties Roscommon and Galway following the latest passing-out ceremony in Templemore; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17599/24]
View answerIn 2024, I have provided a budget allocation of over €2.35 billion to An Garda Síochána which represents a 25% increase on 2020.
At the end of March, there were 14,059 Gardaí which represents an increase of almost 10% since 2015 when there were 12,816 Gardaí throughout the country.
The number of recruits in the Garda training college continue to increase; a total of 746 trainees entered the training college in 2023. This is the highest intake in any year since 2018. A further 185 new recruits entered the College earlier this month.
I can advise the Deputy that there are currently three classes in training in the Garda College, two having entered in 2023 and one this month. These trainees are expected to attest in, June, September and December of this year.
Three further intakes are planned for July, September and December of this year.
I am advised that since 2015 a total of 83 Probationer Gardaí were assigned to Galway Division.
I am further advised that 48 Probationer Gardaí have been assigned to the Roscommon/Longford Division since 2015, this includes 15 Garda members who were assigned to Garda stations within Co. Roscommon. I am advised that no Probationer Garda was assigned to Co. Roscommon this year to date.
The Garda Commissioner and I both fully recognise that policing is often difficult and challenging work, but also very rewarding work. I am sure the Deputy will agree it is not for everyone but it is very much a job worth doing.
I have been absolutely committed to providing An Garda Síochána with the resources needed to make sure communities around Ireland are safe and feel safe.
