Peter Fitzpatrick
Question:40. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Justice the number of Garda members trained in using lights and sirens in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60627/22]
View answerTuesday, 6 December 2022
Questions (40)
Written answers
As the Deputy is aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible, by law, for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána, including arrangements for training within the organisation.
I am informed that the allocation of training courses takes place on a divisional basis with Garda Members selected by local management.
The Garda Driver Training Section provides a range of driving courses to meet the operational demands of the organisation across a wide range of vehicles. There are two training centres are in operation, one at Garda College Templemore and the other Garda Headquarters Phoenix Park.
Training courses are designed to meet the changing requirements of operational units and are in line with current Garda policy and procedures. Since the inception of driver training all training has been based on the Roadcraft system which is a recognised system of vehicle control in the training of emergency service drivers that develops a safe systematic approach to driving.
In 2009 the structure of training courses was amended to a Competency Based Driving model with a number of levels from basic non response driving functions to higher skill set driving based on the Roadcraft system of driving including Emergency Response driving.
The Competency Based Driving Level 2 (CBD2) training is a three week course aimed at frontline Garda Drivers. The course focuses on responsive driving skills and incorporates the function of emergency response, decision-making, relevant legal exemptions, and tactical guidelines around same.
This format enables successful candidates to respond to calls with safety and to perform compliant vehicle stops in line with current policy. This course provides the organisation with drivers who are fit for purpose in respect of District patrol duties and allow them to drive patrol cars attached to their stations.
I am advised that CBD Level 2 training consists of a one day online learning and ten day in-person driving instruction.
Currently there are 191 members in the Louth Garda Division who are CBD2 trained.