Paul Donnelly
Question:505. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been provided to increase the number of dogs in the Garda dog unit; and, if so, when these new dogs will come into service. [23094/23]
View answerTuesday, 16 May 2023
Questions (505)
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 equipment and resources. As Minister for Justice, I have no role in such matters.
I am advised that the Garda Dog Unit is based at Kilmainham Garda Station, in the Dublin Metropolitan Region, and has a national remit. I am also advised that there are currently 26 Dogs attached to the Garda Dog Unit.
I am informed that plans to expand the Garda Dog Unit nationally have been approved by the Garda Executive. I am further informed that implementation of this plan will be on a gradual basis and subject to suitable dogs being identified.
I am also advised that no definitive timeline for the procurement of additional dogs has been established.
I am further advised that the Garda Dog Unit are seeking to identify and develop supply partnerships that will deliver the requisite number of suitable dogs on a more consistent basis than is being achieved under existing mechanisms. The outcome of this process will enable the development of more definitive time-frames surrounding the integration of new Garda dogs into service.