Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022
1572. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Justice the number of unmarked jeeps added to the Garda fleet in 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form; and the number of unmarked jeeps withdrawn from the fleet during this period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40747/22]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including the purchase, allocation, and effective and efficient use of Garda vehicles. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am advised, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review to ensure their optimum use in light of identified operational needs and emerging crime trends.
Budget 2022 provides in excess of an unprecedented €2 billion for An Garda Síochána, of which I am informed that €12m has been allocated for investment in the Garda fleet, which will mean more high visibility policing in our towns and cities.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there were 100 4x4 vehicles assigned to the Garda fleet at 30 June 2022, the latest date for which figures are available.
I am further informed that 2 unmarked 4x4 vehicles were allocated to the fleet in 2021 and 3 unmarked 4x4 vehicles were removed during this time.
I am advised that no unmarked 4x4 vehicles have been allocated or removed from the fleet as at 20 July 2022.
The Deputy may also wish to be aware that An Garda Síochána publish information on Garda fleet, including a Divisional/District monthly breakdown, on their website at:
www.garda.ie/en/about-us/our-departments/finance-services/finance-fleet-management.html.
