Garda Strength.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 May 2004

Wednesday, 5 May 2004

Questions (59)

Brian O'Shea

Question:

52 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the membership of the gardaí at the latest date for which figures are available; if, in regard to his recent comments, he has sought and received Cabinet approval for the recruitment of the 2,000 additional gardaí promised prior to the general election 2002; the current annual capacity of the Garda training college at Templemore; if he has plans to extend the college or otherwise increase training capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12671/04]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána as at 29 April 2004 was 11,993 — all ranks. In relation to the commitment to recruit 2,000 additional gardaí, I refer the Deputy to my response to Priority Question No. 5 of today posed by Deputy Jim O'Keeffe.