Sorca Clarke
Question:641. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice the number of stables by location available to the Garda mounted unit excluding the stables currently in the Phoenix Park. [23112/22]
View answerTuesday, 10 May 2022
Questions (641)
Written answers
The Deputy will be aware that, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána. The allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Commissioner, in light of identified operational demands. As Minister, I have no role in these independent functions.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Mounted Unit (GMU) is based at Áras an Úachtaráin, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 and falls under the remit of Assistant Commissioner, Organised & Serious Crime. The operational control of the GMU is overseen by Detective Chief Superintendent, Operational Support Services. There are currently 12 horses attached to the Garda Mounted Unit.
There are two locations utilised by the GMU excluding Phoenix Park. These are the Landmark Trust Mews, Merrion Square, Dublin 2 and Dublin Castle. These locations are occasionally used by the GMU when the horses require to rest or feed during extended patrols in Dublin city centre. There are two standing stalls and two stables located at the Landmark Trust Mews and two standing stalls located in Dublin Castle.