Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 November 2004
396 Mr. M. Brady asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda recruits who can be accommodated in Templemore training centre on an annual basis; and if there are plans to extend the training centre. [30125/04]
View answerThe Garda college currently has a capacity to induct a maximum of 640 trainees per annum. Accommodation is provided for trainees at the Garda college and externally by the operation of the student living out programme, which may be extended as the need arises. As part of my proposal to increase the strength of the force to 14,000, in line with the Government's commitment set out in An Agreed Programme for Government, the Garda will recruit 1,096 trainees in each of the next three years. To facilitate this accelerated recruitment, a significant enhancement of the Garda college facilities is underway.
A new four-storey block will be built which will provide for central administration and free up the teaching blocks for classroom use. New library and gymnasium facilities will also be provided and existing catering and canteen facilities will be expanded. The plans for all of this are being advanced by the Office of Public Works and construction will be completed by the end of next year in time for the peak inflow of new recruits to the college. Work will also be undertaken to relocate the tactical training facility, which will be displaced by the new building.
In addition, the Garda Commissioner will temporarily move the majority of in-service training out of the Garda college to a new location. This will enable the Garda college to concentrate mainly on training new recruits arising from the accelerated recruitment campaign. The OPW has advertised for expressions of interest in the provision of the new accommodation for in-service training. This outsourced facility will provide accommodation for up to 100 gardaí, with classroom and lecture facilities.
