Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 September 2013
168. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which the upgrading of Garda transport continues in line with requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40085/13]
View answerDecisions in relation to the provision and allocation of Garda vehicles are a matter for the Garda Commissioner in the light of his identified operational demands and the availability of resources. The allocation of Garda vehicles is monitored and reviewed on an on-going basis.
As the Deputy will be aware, an additional €3 million was made available towards the end of last year which enabled the Force to procure 171 vehicles. This brought total investment in the Garda fleet in 2012 to €4 million and resulted in a total of 213 new vehicles being procured during the year. Furthermore, a specific allocation of €5 million has been provided for the purchase and fit-out of Garda transport in the current year. I am informed by the Garda authorities that to date this investment has resulted in 133 new vehicles being procured.
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 deliver an effective and efficient policing service. In keeping with this approach, I will continue to seek to identify the potential for additional funding for the Garda Fleet. This will, of course, be contingent on expenditure in other areas.
