asked the Minister for Justice the total approved strength of the Garda Síochána, and the total number of serving Gardaí at the present time.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Strength.
16.
The total maximum strength of the Garda Síochána as prescribed by the Police Forces Amalgamation Act, 1925, and the Garda Síochána Act, 1945, is 7,702. The Garda Síochána Vote for 1961-62 provides for a total strength of 7,007 less a probable deduction in this figure of 450 in respect of retirements, resignations, deaths, etc., during the year.
The number of members serving in the Force on the 1st of June, 1961, was 6,646, which showed no variation of substance from the corresponding figure in any of the past eight years.
Is it the policy of the Department to reduce the strength of the Garda in the country?
That is a separate matter.