Garda Deployment

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 March 2013

Wednesday, 6 March 2013

Questions (162)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

162. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to ensure that the number of gardaí deployed in the national force does not fall below 13,000 in 2013; if he intends to recruit extra gardaí before the end of 2013; if so, if he will ensure that the Garda Commissioner will be cognisant of the wide disparity in staffing levels across Garda divisions when assigning any new staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11773/13]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

Garda numbers have been reducing due to the moratorium on recruitment. My objective, despite the enormous financial pressures facing the Government is to ensure that Garda numbers will not fall below 13,000. I have informed my Cabinet colleagues that I am reviewing the position regarding Garda strength in light of an estimated reduction to just over 13,000 by the end of 2013, and, in this context, I will be bringing all relevant proposals to Cabinet in the coming weeks.

The Deputy will be aware that the Commissioner is responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, throughout the organisation and I have no direct function in the matter. This allocation of resources is constantly monitored in the context of demographics, crime trends, policing needs and other operational strategies in place on a District, Divisional and Regional level to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.