Catherine Murphy
Question:811. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the last time Garda public order shields and helmets were last updated; and when they are next scheduled to be updated. [21434/21]
View answerWednesday, 28 April 2021
Questions (811)
Written answers
I have requested a report on the information sought by the Deputy from An Garda Síochána, unfortunately the report was not to hand in time. I will write to the Deputy directly on receipt of the appropriate information.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to Parliamentary Question Number 811 which was for answer on 28 April 2021, where you requested the last time Garda public order shields and helmets were last updated; and when they are next scheduled to be updated.
You will recall that the information could not be obtained in the time available and I undertook to consult with An Garda Síochána and contact you again when the information was available.
As you will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for managing and controlling the administration and business of An Garda Síochána as well as for decisions in relation to the allocation and management of Garda equipment and resources. I have no direct role in these matters.
I have been informed by Garda authorities that public order shields and helmets are purchased in conjunction with the input of the public order unit to ensure they are compatible with all other items of equipment provided to this unit and that they meet the safety standards required, specifically flame retardant standards. These items are kept under review by procurement and the public order units to ensure that they continue to meet the highest standards at all times.
I have also been informed by Garda authorities that the last full review of public order equipment took place in 2019. There have been minor changes made over the years to the helmets and shields to update safety features. The contract for other public order equipment will be renewed in late 2022 and all public order equipment will be reviewed as part of this process.
I trust this information is of assistance.