Bernard J. Durkan
Question:184 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which it is intended to increase the numbers of Gardaí in the next two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7409/99]
Written Answers. - Garda Recruitment.
The programme for Government contains a commitment to increase the strength of the force to 12,000 over the lifetime of the Government, a commitment which will increase Garda numbers by a total of approximately 1,200. It is planned to achieve this by the end of 2,002 and recruitment to meet this target is ongoing.
The strength of the force has now reached 11,200. The projected strength of the force at the end of 1999 is approximately 11,500 and at the end of 2,000 approximately 11,800.