Skip to main content
Normal View

Garda Equipment.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2007

Tuesday, 9 October 2007

Questions (24, 25, 26, 27)

Joe Costello

Question:

111 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will act on the call from the Garda Inspectorate that all members of the force be given appropriate protection vests in view of the increased dangers faced by members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22483/07]

View answer

Charles Flanagan

Question:

143 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage of An Garda Síochána that has access to bullet proof vests on a daily basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22531/07]

View answer

Tom Hayes

Question:

173 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average time Gardaí have to wait for stab-proof vests once a decision has been taken to procure same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22539/07]

View answer

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

493 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to ensure improved protection for Gardaí such as personal armour protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22867/07]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 111, 143, 173 and 493 together.

The Deputy will be aware that the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including equipment, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner to be decided on the basis of his identified operational requirements. I am advised by the Garda authorities that two types of protective body armour are in use. Detectives are issued with protective vests that have bullet and stab proof properties. All Detectives have access to these vests. Uniform Personnel are issued with protection vests which incorporate bullet and stab proof properties. The uniform vest is lighter and more flexible.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that a contract for the supply and delivery of over 12,500 protective body vests (with an option to purchase additional vests, if required) has been put in place. A fitting and delivery programme commenced early this year. I am further advised that to date 79% of operational members, students undergoing training and reserves have received their personal issue vest. It is expected to complete the current roll out phase before the end of the year. Further rollouts will take place as ongoing recruitment progresses.

The standard and quality of the protective vests are kept under constant review by the Garda authorities.

Top
Share