Robert Molloy
Question:54 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for Justice the progress, if any, which has been made in the civilianisation of the Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2192/97]
Written Answers. - Garda Síochána Civilianisation.
The anti-crime package which I announced in July 1996, provided for the appointment of 200 additional civilian staff to the Garda Síochána to enable an equivalent number of gardaí to be released to operational duties. To date 49 such posts have been filled and I am informed by the Garda authorities that this has led to the release of 43 gardaí to operational duties at this stage. I understand from the Garda authorities that these members have been redeployed throughout their respective divisions and that the deployment of the six remaining members is currently being addressed.
The recruitment of personnel to fill the balance of these 200 posts is dependent on selection from competitions run by the Civil Service Commission. The results of one such competition are awaited while arrangements to have further competitions held are at an advanced stage and it is expected that they will be advertised shortly.