The provision and allocation of Garda resources, including transport, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the context of his operational requirements. In turn, at Garda Divisional level, the allocation of Garda vehicles is a matter for the Chief Superintendent who may make and revise arrangements for the deployment of vehicles throughout a Division in response to policing demands. This flexibility in allocating and re-allocating vehicles among stations, so as to best match resources with policing priorities, is crucial to the efficient management of the Garda fleet.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the deployment of transport resources is the subject of on-going analysis and review. This process allows Garda management to allocate available resources within the Force in the most appropriate manner and to ensure an efficient service. I am very pleased that arrangements have been put in place, with special funding being made available for that purpose, to allow the Garda authorities to purchase a significant number of new vehicles. I have no doubt that the provision of an additional 170 vehicles will considerably strengthen the overall effectiveness of the Force in delivering a policing service throughout the country. The vehicles are due to be commissioned in December/January and they will be deployed by the Garda authorities in line with policing requirements.