Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 December 2012
76. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will ensure that the number of members in An Garda Síochána does not drop below 13,000 in view of the recent comments of the Garda Commissioner in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54356/12]
View answerThe personnel strength of An Garda Síochána on 30 November 2012, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 13,459. There are also approximately 1,000 Garda Reservists and 2,000 civilians.
The previous Government committed to reducing Garda strength to 13,000 as part of their undertaking to the Troika to reduce public service numbers, and introduced a moratorium on recruitment under which no Garda trainee has entered the Garda College since May 2009.
I want to see Garda strength maintained at the highest level consistent with the availability of resources. I will remain in dialogue with my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on this, but what is vital now is that the still significant resources of the Force are used with maximum efficiency and to the greatest effect. That is why the reforms being introduced by the Garda Commissioner, such as the rationalisation of the Garda station and district networks, are essential and should be supported by all members of the House.
