Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 October 2004
273 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the arrangements which are in place for the use of bullet-proof vests by members of the Garda Síochána; the cost of each vest; his views on whether an adequate number of bullet-proof vests are available; if their availability is not endangering the lives of members of the force or hindering the pursuit of criminals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23645/04]
View answerI have been informed by the Garda authorities that bullet-proof vests are issued to members of an Garda Síochána as required, based upon risk assessments and operational conditions. These bullet-proof vests are available in every Garda district in the country and are issued whenever members are performing high-risk duties.
Garda management is satisfied that there are an adequate number of vests available to ensure that the lives of members of an Garda Síochána are not placed in danger, or that the pursuit of criminals is not hindered. I have been informed that the approximate cost of a bullet-proof vest, including VAT, is €480.
