Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2006
416 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of flak and anti-stab jackets available to Gardaí in County Mayo; the number of such jackets available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23696/06]
View answerI have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, that there are 33 Ballistic vests on issue to the Gardaí in the Mayo Garda Division ten (10) of which have both ballistic and anti-stab properties.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that a total of 1,946 Ballistic vests are available to Gardaí nationwide. A Request for Tender (RFT) for the supply and delivery of 2,100 Ballistic Vests with anti-stab properties was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 6th April, 2006. A total of 9 proposals were received which are currently being evaluated by An Garda Síochána. These lightweight and flexible vests will be worn generally as an outer garment but can be concealed under a jacket/coat and will be navy blue in colour.
In addition, an RFT for the supply of a further 11,000 Anti Stab Ballistics Vests and without prejudice or commitment to purchase a further quantity of no more than 4,000 over the duration of the contract, was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 8th May, 2006 with a closing date for receipt of tenders of 21st June, 2006.
It is intended that the acquisition of these vests will provide for the personal issue of anti-stab ballistic vests to all members of the Force.
