Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 December 2023
553. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if funding has been sought by the Garda Commissioner for the purchase of water cannons for use by An Garda Síochána during major public order and violent disorder events. [54901/23]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Garda Síochána Act 2005 (as amended), including decisions related to the operational equipment and fleet needs for the service. As Minister I have no role in these independent functions.
I can however assure you that I am committed to ensuring that An Garda Síochána has the resources it needs.
I welcome the Commissioner’s comments to the Justice Committee, stating his intention to submit a business case for the purchase of two water cannon for An Garda Síochána. While the Commissioner has not as yet submitted a business case for the acquisition of water cannon once he does, it would be my intention to progress the matter as quickly as possible.
