Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
932. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the necessary financial resources will be provided to An Garda Síochána to cover the costs associated with the recent visit of President Trump and not have funding originally allocated for Garda training reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33978/19]
View answerThere has been very significant investment in Garda resources across the State in recent years. €1.76 billion has been allocated to the Garda Vote for 2019, in addition to capital investment amounting to €92 million this year.
I would remind the Deputy that the Garda Commissioner is the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote. He is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána, including the allocation of Garda resources.
In relation to the matter raised by the Deputy, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the overall cost to An Garda Síochána of the visit to Ireland of President Trump has not yet been finalised.
I fully support the Commissioner in his performance of this role and in his efforts to ensure that the Garda Vote comes in on budget. Garda management and my Department keep the financial position of An Garda Síochána under ongoing review.
