An Garda Síochána

Wednesday, 18 January 2023

Questions (1107)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

1107. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice if funding will be provided for the replacement of the two dive trucks within the Garda water unit. [1214/23]

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Written answers

As 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 assured, 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.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to ensuring An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs to deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose, policing service. Budget 2023 provides funding of €2.14 billion for An Garda Síochána, of which I am informed that €10m has been allocated for investment in the Garda fleet.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Water Unit is a national resource based at Santry Garda Station, Dublin Metropolitan Region and Garycastle, Athlone, Co. Westmeath and is under the direction and control of Assistant Commissioner, Organised and Serious Crime and the operational control of Chief Superintendent, Operational Support Services.

The unit provides a full dive and marine capability throughout the State and responds to requests for assistance from within An Garda Síochána and relevant agencies.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Unit currently has two dive trucks, one in Santry and one in Athlone.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that in Q2 2022 financial sanction was approved for the purchase of two trucks. I am further advised that a tendering process was subsequently carried out, which is now complete. Both trucks are now in the manufacturing process and are expected to be allocated once this process is completed.