The Deputy will be aware that there has been very significant investment in Garda resources across the State in recent years. The Government's Capital Plan 2016 – 2021 provides €46 million for investment in the Garda fleet, to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet, in addition to the investment of almost €30 million in the period 2013 to 2015. In total in the period 2013 - 2017, almost €44 million has been invested in the fleet with some 2,000 vehicles coming on stream.
Decisions in relation to the provision and allocation of Garda vehicles across Garda Divisions, including the potential use of 'green energy' vehicles, are a matter for the Commissioner in light of his identified operational demands and the availability of resources. As Minister, I have no direct role in that matter. I understand however that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure their optimum use.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the feasibility of the use of hybrid or electric vehicles is under consideration within An Garda Síochána. I am informed that 2 electric vehicles were purchased by An Garda Síochána this year, in order to evaluate the potential and limitations of electric vehicles in Garda operational environments. Once fitted out, these vehicles will be allocated under pilot conditions.
More generally, the Deputy may wish to be aware that An Garda Síochána has been involved in the Public Sector Energy Reporting Programme since 2011 and has achieved a 25.7% improvement in energy efficiency up to 2017, against the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) 33% energy efficiency target by 2020. In relation to the fleet, I am advised by the Garda authorities that the majority of efficiencies have been achieved from the conversion from petrol to diesel.
