Garda Transport

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 December 2011

Tuesday, 6 December 2011

Questions (248)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

253 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality in view of the fact that the Garda fleet is being systematically reduced as patrol cars reach the end of their life when cars with 300,000 km on the speedometer are withdrawn; if he will review this policy in the context of the current economic climate if it is deemed that the vehicle can continue service; if he will give this proposal serious consideration in view of the fact that we have so many stations that have no Garda vehicle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38273/11]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter)

Decisions in relation to the deployment of Garda resources, including transport, are matters for the Garda Commissioner. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the allocation of Garda vehicles is monitored and reviewed on a continuous basis to ensure that Garda transport is deployed in such a manner as to ensure the delivery of an effective policing service throughout the country.

I am also advised by the Garda authorities that, for safety reasons in accordance with the recommendations of the relevant motor car manufacturers, Garda cars are decommissioned when the odometer reading reaches 300,000 kilometres.