Catherine Murphy
Question:188. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been secured in 2023 to increase the number of horses in the garda mounted unit. [11703/23]
View answerWednesday, 8 March 2023
Questions (188)
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 any decisions in relation to the allocation and control of Garda resources. As Minister, I have no role in such matters.
The Commissioner, as the Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote under the Act, is also responsible for the economy and the efficiency of the Garda Síochána in using its resources.
The Deputy will further be aware that funding for the Garda Vote is sought as part of the usual budgetary process. Budget 2023 provides in excess of an unprecedented €2.14 billion of funding to the Garda Vote. The Garda Mounted Unit is based at Áras An Úachtaráin, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 and has a national remit under the direction and control of Assistant Commissioner, Organised and Serious Crime and the operational control of Detective Chief Superintendent, Operational Support Services. I am informed that there are currently 12 horses attached to the Garda Mounted Unit. I am further advised that funding is made available to purchase horses as the need arises when a horse is retired and a new one is required.