Joe McHugh
Question:483. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the deployment issues that are arising due to the high mileage on Garda cars including cars in the fleet in County Donegal. [6584/13]
View answerTuesday, 12 February 2013
Questions (483)
Written answers
Decisions in relation to the provision and deployment of Garda transport are matters for the Garda Commissioner. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the deployment of Garda transport is determined on the basis of ongoing analysis and review of the policing needs of each Garda Division, including the Donegal Division, to ensure that the available resources are utilised to best advantage to meet the operational requirements of the Force. Garda patrol vehicles are taken out of service for a variety of reasons, including as a result of accidents or when the odometer reading reaches the safety limit set by the relevant manufacturer.
As the Deputy will be aware, I made an additional €3 million available to An Garda Síochána towards the end of last year, enabling the Force to procure a total of 312 vehicles in 2012. In this context I understand that 25 new vehicles are currently being provided for the Garda Northern Region, which includes the Donegal Division. A more specific breakdown is not currently available but the Deputy can be assured that the vehicles will be deployed as effectively as possible in line with operational circumstances.
In addition, a further allocation of €5 million has been provided for the purchase and fit-out of Garda transport in 2013. This represents a very considerable financial investment in Garda transport, particularly at a time when the level of funding available across the public sector is severely limited. It is a clear indication of my commitment to ensure that, to the greatest extent possible, An Garda Síochána are provided with sufficient resources to enable them to provide an effective and efficient policing service.