Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 September 2021
500. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardai who successfully completed the van personnel carrier course in 2020 and to date in 2021; the duration of this course; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45055/21]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. This includes the arrangement of training courses for Garda members. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the aim of the Garda van personnel carrier course is to upskill operational Garda members in the driving of vans and personnel carriers which contain more than 8 seats. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that personnel carriers are used to transport operational members between points of duty and public events and public order situations.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that 21 Garda members successfully completed the van personnel carrier course in 2020 and 6 Garda members have successfully completed the course in 2021 to date. I am further advised that the course is 4 days in duration.
